Undergrad What if there were no observers?

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The discussion explores the implications of a universe without observers in the context of quantum mechanics (QM). It highlights that while QM often involves the concept of an observer, the universe can exist and evolve independently of conscious observers, as evidenced by events like the Big Bang and star formation. The wave function collapse, a key aspect of QM, is debated as being merely an interpretation rather than a physical process. Participants emphasize that the notion of "observer" can extend beyond conscious beings to any system capable of interaction, but QM's definitions rely on the presence of a macroscopic context. Overall, the conversation suggests that without observers, the framework of QM becomes challenging to define operationally.
  • #31
I see… I think I’m gonna lock the thread here since that’s probably the case. An “observer” is kind of an undefined thing where it can vary from person to person, so I suppose I had a wrong understanding on what it is. Still, thanks a lot for explaining all of this to me!

Best regards,
Seph

(oh right how do i lock it i actually don’t know)
 
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  • #32
SephQ said:
how do i lock it i actually don’t know
You don't. You ask a moderator, like me, to lock it. :wink:

I have now done so. Thanks to all who participated in the thread.
 

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