What Are the Best Books on the Philosophical Implications of Quantum Mechanics?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on identifying books that explore the philosophical implications of quantum mechanics, particularly those that address fundamental issues like the measurement problem and coherence. Participants seek recommendations that emphasize philosophical perspectives rather than mathematical formulations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests recommendations for books that delve into philosophical issues related to quantum mechanics, specifically mentioning the measurement problem and coherence.
  • Another participant suggests "In Search of Schrödinger's Cat: Quantum Physics and Reality" as a decent popular account on the subject.
  • A later reply reiterates the recommendation of "In Search of Schrödinger's Cat," noting it as a decent read from two years prior.
  • Another book mentioned is "Mind Matter and Quantum Mechanics" by Henry Stapp, which is described as focusing on the mind/brain problem and containing philosophical ideas from philosophers rather than physicists, with a suggestion to check the contents for relevance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the recommended books, but there is no consensus on a definitive list of the best books. Multiple viewpoints on suitable readings remain present.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations may depend on individual interpretations of what constitutes a philosophical approach to quantum mechanics, and the relevance of suggested books may vary based on personal interests.

kuahji
Messages
390
Reaction score
2
I'm looking for books that go beyond the equations & mathematics. Ones that touch base on fundamental issues such as the measurement problem, coherence/incoherence, & things of this nature. Does anyone know any thorough books on the subject?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The popular book, "In Search of Schrödinger's Cat: Quantum Physics and Reality" is a decent book.
 
edgepflow said:
The popular book, "In Search of Schrödinger's Cat: Quantum Physics and Reality" is a decent book.

It was a decent popular account on the subject, I read it about two years back.
 
You might like mind matter and quantum mechanics by henry stapp. It's more focused on the mind/brain problem and contains philosophical ideas coming from philosophers, not physicists, but i think that you clould find in there some really interenting parts. You could actually check in the contents to see wether it suits you or not.
 

Similar threads

Quantum Buying my first Quantum mechanics book
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
Quantum What are the best books for: 1.Mass 2.Energy and 3.Quantum Mechanics?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Classical What are the best intermediate Newtonian mechanics textbooks?
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
6K
Quantum Looking for a Quantum Mechanics Book for Non-Physicists?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Quantum What is the most suitable Quantum Mechanics book for these questions?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Classical Source recommendation on Differential Geometry
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Quantum Books teaching maths more advanced than what is used in quantum physics
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
4K
Quantum Most accurate modern physics book
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
Quantum Good introductory books in the Quantum Mechanics?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Quantum Which Intermediate Quantum Mechanics Textbook Covers Specific Topics Best?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K