Undergrad Ontology of an electron passing through a Stern-Gerlach magnet

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An electron passing through a Stern-Gerlach magnet does not have a defined spin until measured, raising questions about its existence and properties prior to measurement. The discussion highlights the limitations of the scientific method in addressing what occurs when a system is not being observed, contrasting classical mechanics with quantum mechanics. Different interpretations of quantum mechanics suggest varying ontologies, with some arguing that particles have inherent properties regardless of observation. The debate centers on whether quantum mechanics possesses a definitive ontology or if it is merely a framework for predicting measurement outcomes. Ultimately, the conversation reflects ongoing philosophical inquiries into the nature of reality in quantum physics.
  • #31
I see this through the prism of a materialistic interpretation of action in a closed world.
 
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  • #32
martinbn said:
That the particles/fields exist, in this example the electron.
That's not an ontology. This situation you describe is exactly why to this day QT has no ontology. Shut up and calculate is not an ontology.
 
  • #33
EPR said:
That's not an ontology. This situation you describe is exactly why to this day QT has no ontology. Shut up and calculate is not an ontology.
What is onltology according to you?
 

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