New edition of Ballentine's textbook.

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In summary, a 2nd edition of Ballentine's textbook on quantum mechanics has recently become available, with an additional chapter on quantum information. However, the Amazon "look inside" feature is not enabled for this edition. The previous edition ended with chapter 20 on Bell's theorem, while the new edition includes a new chapter (21) on quantum information. This update also includes a preface discussing the author's motivations and evolution of the book over the past 25 years. Additionally, the publisher's website offers a free download of the mathematical prerequisites for the book. Some have discussed the sensitive issues from the 1998 edition, which was built on the author's 1970 paper, but it is unclear if the 2nd
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strangerep
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For those who like Ballentine's textbook, I just noticed that a 2nd edition has become available very recently. Unfortunately, it doesn't have the Amazon "look inside" feature enabled so I can't see easily what's been changed, apart from the extra chapter on quantum information mentioned in the general blurb.

Amazon has 4 copies left... but... <click>... now they have 3. ;)
 
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A new chapter about quantum information?
No-cloning no-deleting no-hiding theorems maybe?
 
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The new edition ships with sexy pin-ups of the founding fathers of QM, which was always lacking in the first edition.
 
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dextercioby said:
We've always discussed the sensitive issues from his 1998 book, like we do right now here: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/living-opponents-of-the-copenhagen-interpretation.781071/
Istm, what's discussed is a somewhat incoherent mixture of his book, and his old 1970 paper.

I don't think this 2nd edition changes anything there, but it would be interesting to know exactly, nonetheless. I mean the 1998 book was built on his 1970 RMP famous article (quite a gap).
This is more like a 3rd edition. The 1st was 1990 (with a different publisher?), the 2nd was 1998 (World Scientific), and now we have the 2015 edition (sic) -- which World Scientific seems to call the "2nd edition" of his 1998 book.

It's interesting to read the preface (which can be freely downloaded as part of the "front matter" on the publisher page that Dr Claude gave). It gives some insight into his motivations back in 1990, as well as how it has evolved in ~25 yrs since.
 
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strangerep said:
Istm, what's discussed is a somewhat incoherent mixture of his book, and his old 1970 paper.

That's true.

His book evolved a bit from the 1970 paper where in the book he clarified exactly what an observation selecting from a conceptual ensemble means.

Thanks
Bill
 
  • #9
The previous edition ended with chapter 20 (Bell's theorem and its consequences.
There is now a new (21) chapter about quantum information.
Did somebody read it?
 

1. What are the new updates and changes in the latest edition of Ballentine's textbook?

The new edition of Ballentine's textbook includes updated content and information based on the latest research and developments in the field. It also features new chapters, expanded sections, and revised figures and tables.

2. Is the new edition of Ballentine's textbook suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students?

Yes, the new edition of Ballentine's textbook is designed to be accessible and useful for both undergraduate and graduate students. It covers foundational concepts as well as advanced topics in a comprehensive and understandable manner.

3. Does the new edition of Ballentine's textbook include online resources such as practice quizzes or interactive simulations?

Yes, the new edition of Ballentine's textbook offers a range of online resources for students, including practice quizzes, interactive simulations, and additional study materials. These resources are designed to enhance the learning experience and help students better understand and apply the concepts in the textbook.

4. Are there any supplementary materials or resources available for instructors using the new edition of Ballentine's textbook?

Yes, the new edition of Ballentine's textbook offers a variety of supplementary materials and resources for instructors, such as PowerPoint slides, test banks, and sample syllabi. These resources can assist instructors in creating a comprehensive and engaging course for their students.

5. Can the new edition of Ballentine's textbook be used as a reference book for professionals in the field?

Yes, the new edition of Ballentine's textbook can serve as a valuable reference book for professionals in the field. It covers a wide range of topics and provides in-depth explanations and analysis of key concepts, making it a useful resource for professionals looking to expand their knowledge and understanding of the subject.

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