Quantum Quantum Theory from First Principles

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The discussion centers around the book "Quantum Theory from First Principles" by D'Ariano et al., which is praised for its concise and rigorous approach to quantum theory using a diagrammatic method. The book is structured into three main parts: it explores the Hilbert space formalism of quantum theory and its relation to information theory, discusses information theoretic principles as foundational to quantum theory, and derives quantum theory from six key information theoretic principles. Importantly, the focus is on the abstract formalism of quantum theory rather than specific physical systems. Additionally, the exercises included in the book are noted for their quality, guiding readers through the development of concepts presented in the text.
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@LittleSchwinger recently recommended this book

LittleSchwinger said:
If you enjoy it D'Ariano et al's "Quantum Theory from First Principles" uses a similar diagramatic approach but is more concise and rigorous.

What are peoples thoughts on it?
 
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I fully agree with my own recommendations :wink:

Basically the book is divided into three parts:
  1. An examination of the Hilbert space formalism of quantum theory and how it generalises information theory.
  2. A discussion of information theoretic principles and how aspects of quantum theory are simply consequences of them
  3. A derivation of quantum theory from six information theoretic principles
Note: I say "quantum theory" to refer to the abstract formalism of Hilbert Spaces and operators on them. The book does not examine any physics as such, i.e. explicit systems like hydrogen atoms, harmonic oscillators, gases etc. It's an investigation of the abstract formalism.

The exercises are very well crafted and often take the form of a guided development of ideas from the text.
 
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