Do hidden variable theories reject superposition of states?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter I2004
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Theories Variable
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of hidden variable theories, particularly in relation to the concept of superposition of states in quantum mechanics. Participants explore whether hidden variable theories assert that objects exist in a single location at any given time, contrasting this with the notion of superposition.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire whether hidden variable theories imply that objects exist as single entities in specific locations, rather than in superposition.
  • In Bohm Mechanics, a non-local hidden variable theory, it is stated that each system has a well-defined position at each moment, suggesting a single state rather than a superposition of states.
  • There is a reference to Wikipedia discussing hidden variables having many wave histories, prompting questions about whether this implies the existence of multiple histories in theories like pilot wave and 't Hooft's approach.
  • Some participants express a desire for simple answers, indicating varying levels of knowledge on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree that in Bohm Mechanics, systems are described as having a single state rather than being in superposition. However, there remains uncertainty regarding the implications of hidden variables and their relation to multiple histories, indicating ongoing debate.

Contextual Notes

Some claims rely on interpretations of hidden variable theories and may depend on specific definitions or contexts that are not fully explored in the discussion.

I2004
Messages
57
Reaction score
0
do Hidden variable(local and non local) theories say all objects exist as a single objects in a single location rather than many locations at the same? unlike objects in superpostion?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
just simple responses please like a yes or no as I am not very knowledgeable
 
In Bohm Mechanics (a non-local hidden variable theory), each system is in a well-defined position at each instance of time.
 
StevieTNZ said:
In Bohm Mechanics (a non-local hidden variable theory), each system is in a well-defined position at each instance of time.

a single state then? not a superpostion of states
 
I2004 said:
a single state then? not a superpostion of states

Yes.
 
wikipedia says hidden variables have many wave histories, does this mean hidden variables like pilot wave and t'hoofts have universes with many histories?
 
I2004 said:
wikipedia says hidden variables have many wave histories, does this mean hidden variables like pilot wave and t'hoofts have universes with many histories?

You may be reaching the limits of what wikipedia can do for you:frown: - at some point there's no substitute for a decent textbook and/or teacher to get a solid foundation.

But if you can provide a pointer to the specific wikipedia quote you're thinking about, we may be able to give you a better answer.
 
I2004 said:
a state then? not a superpostion of states

yes.
 

Similar threads

High School Quantum entanglement and hidden variables
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Undergrad Isn't the local no-hidden-variable theory inconsistent with standard QM?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
High School Entanglement - lack of "symmetry" in no-hidden variables explanation
  • · Replies 44 ·
2
Replies
44
Views
5K
Undergrad Looking For Help Understanding Bell's Theorem, Hidden Variables & QM
  • · Replies 80 ·
3
Replies
80
Views
8K
Graduate No hidden variables in QM - a paradigm shift?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Undergrad Concrete contrast between local and nonlocal hidden variable
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K
Graduate Can Non Realism = Non Deterministic Hidden Variable Theory
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
4K
Graduate Hidden variables and Bell's inequality
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Graduate Non-Computability of Hidden Variables
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Graduate Local hidden variable theories
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K