Is MWI Considered Local in Quantum Mechanics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of the Many-Worlds Interpretation (MWI) of quantum mechanics, specifically addressing whether it can be considered local. Participants explore definitions of locality, implications of MWI in Hilbert space, and the relationship between locality and quantum phenomena such as Bell inequality violations.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that MWI cannot be local, suggesting that the concept of locality should not be applied to it.
  • Others question the definition of "local," noting that locality is often defined in terms of space and time, while MWI operates in Hilbert space.
  • One participant proposes a definition of locality that includes the idea that no influence can travel faster than light and must move forward in time.
  • Concerns are raised about whether discussions of locality are fundamentally about physics or merely about terminology, with some suggesting that the debate may be semantic.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the MWI, while others seek clarity on how it is defined and understood within the physics community.
  • A viewpoint is presented that MWI is "alocal," meaning it does not fit neatly into the categories of local or non-local.
  • It is noted that all interpretations of quantum mechanics involve abstract mathematical spaces, which complicates the discussion of locality.
  • Participants discuss the implications of denying the existence of a 3+1 dimensional space in relation to locality.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether MWI is local, non-local, or alocal. Multiple competing views remain, with ongoing debate about the definitions and implications of locality in the context of MWI.

Contextual Notes

Limitations in the discussion include varying definitions of locality, the dependence on interpretations of quantum mechanics, and unresolved questions regarding the implications of Bell inequality violations.

  • #211
PeterDonis said:
There are no "idler photons" in the experiments discussed.
Oops.
 
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