Can Quantum Physics Confirm the Correct Interpretation of GHZ and GRW?

In summary, the conversation discusses the question of whether physics can confirm a certain interpretation of quantum mechanics or if it is purely philosophical. It is stated that interpretations cannot be directly confirmed by scientific methods, but they can influence thinking that leads to testable results. If two interpretations make different predictions, an experiment can potentially eliminate one as being incorrect. However, without a specific testable prediction, the discussion remains futile. The conversation also mentions the possibility of testing the many-worlds interpretation in the future, but for now, it remains hypothetical.
  • #1
Einstein's Cat
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Could physics ever be able to confirm that a certain interpretation of quantum mechanics is correct or is the matter entirely philosophical and thus doomed to the depths of subjectivity?
 
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  • #2
An interpretation as such cannot be directly confirmed by strict scientific methods, but it can influence a style of thinking that eventually leads to results that can be directly confirmed by such methods.
 
  • #3
If two interpretations make different predictions about the results of some experiment, then an experiment would be able to show that one or the other was wrong. (We'd also stop calling them "interpretations" because an interpretation is, by definition, not testable). That wouldn't necessarily tell is which one was right, but at least it would eliminate a wrong one.

It can happen; the EPR suggestion that QM emerges from some underlying deterministic and local theory was a plausible interpretation until Bell found that it implied Bell's inequality and experiments showed that Bell's inequality is violated. Today GRW makes different predictions than standard QM; in principle these are testable although the effects are far too small to observe in any practical experiment.

However, unless we have a specific testable prediction in mind (and none are known today), the discussion remains futile. Yes, if we could find a testable difference we could test it... Yes, we can't prove that we'll never find such a thing... But we don't know of any today, which leaves us with nothing to talk about.

[Note - edited to change "GHZ" to "GRW" which is what I meant. Thanks to demystifier for catching this]
 
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In another thread it was mentioned an extremely speculative way to experimentally test MWI, but I didn't understand what it involved.
 
  • #6
ddd123 said:
In another thread it was mentioned an extremely speculative way to experimentally test MWI, but I didn't understand what it involved.
That sounds extremely interesting; could you please provide a link to the thread?
 
  • #7
Einstein's Cat said:
That sounds extremely interesting; could you please provide a link to the thread?

Quoting it directly, you can click on the arrow to go to the thread:

secur said:
... and Deutsch has published on how the MWI could be tested. He argues that in all likelihood the test could be performed within the next 100 years.

- looked that up too, it depends on technology that doesn't exist and may never. Also, if such tests are performed, CI'ers can still fit the results into their view. Admittedly if Quantum Computing, or "Conscious AGI", ever realized all its promises (or, lies, depending on your view), and it turned out 100% as Deutsch envisions, MWI would win. For now, however, his test is too hypothetical to change anyone's opinion (in my opinion).
 
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1. What is QM Interpretation Inquiry?

QM Interpretation Inquiry, or Quantum Mechanics Interpretation Inquiry, is a branch of physics that focuses on investigating and understanding the different interpretations and implications of quantum mechanics. It aims to explore the fundamental concepts and principles of quantum mechanics and how they can be interpreted in different ways.

2. What are the main interpretations of quantum mechanics?

There are several main interpretations of quantum mechanics, including the Copenhagen interpretation, the pilot-wave theory, the many-worlds interpretation, and the hidden variables theory. Each interpretation offers a different explanation of the behavior of particles at the quantum level.

3. How do these interpretations differ from each other?

The main differences between the interpretations of quantum mechanics lie in how they explain the concept of wave-particle duality, the role of measurement in quantum systems, and the existence of multiple universes. Each interpretation offers a unique perspective on these fundamental concepts.

4. What is the current status of the debate on quantum mechanics interpretations?

The debate on quantum mechanics interpretations is ongoing and continues to be a topic of discussion and research among physicists. While some interpretations have gained more acceptance and support from the scientific community, there is still no consensus on which interpretation is the most accurate or valid.

5. Why is the study of quantum mechanics interpretations important?

The study of quantum mechanics interpretations is important because it helps us gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe and its building blocks. It also has implications for technology and the development of new technologies, such as quantum computing, which rely on our understanding of quantum mechanics.

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