QUANTUM METAPHYSICS - E-thesis

In the light of quantum mechanics, Newtonian mechanics proved to be an approximation,
adequate only when describing macroscopic phenomena. Quantum mechanics has become the
basic tool of modern physics, and has been applied just as successfully to the challenges of
modern-day research as Newton’s formalism was in earlier times. Quantum mechanics gave rise
to a huge body of unanswered questions and physicists have been rushing to apply the theory to
new phenomena. Just as Newtonian mechanics did in its time quantum mechanics now signifies
a new framework for physics. It has affected the core of physical research, for example by
requiring the adoption of a new idea of state and statistical predictions. New theories of physics
conforms to the principles of the quantum framework such as superposition or non-locality 439
A theoretical framework differs markedly from a normal theory in that it includes fundamental
principles which are constituent parts of all the theories than belong to that frame of reference.
Newtonian mechanics can be taken as a classical example of a theoretical framework. It contains
universal principles which were assumed to be adequate for explaining all phenomena
encountered. These general principles are both the strengths and the vulnerability of theoretical
frameworks as they lead to consequences, i.e. laws, according to which the principles can be
tested. 440 While quantum mechanics revealed the principles of the Newtonian framework to be
inadequate, all the subsequent theories such as the quantum field or strings theories belong to
the quantum framework in just the same way as the theories concerning sound and temperature
were part of the classical framework. The fundamental ontological and epistemological problems
connected with these latest theories are the same as the ones already raised by quantum
mechanics. Problems of interpretation are not just associated with individual theories, they relate
to the quantum framework. 441
A conception of reality is a wider frame of reference than a physical theory or framework, and its
creation also requires the interpretation of physical theories. While classical physics is connected
to a mechanistic and objective notion of reality, quantum theory awakens the need for in-depth
discussion of both physical knowledge and the nature of reality. In discussions concerning
interpretation, it has been necessary to remember that the basic presuppositions of classical
physics such as determinism, reductionism, dualism or even metaphysical realism cannot be
439 Marsch 1957, 46-47.
440 Omnes 1999, 248-250. Omnes differentiates between empirical rules, principles and laws. Empirical rules
systematise observations but do not provide explanations. Principles are supposed to be universal.
441 D´Espagnat 1989, 192-193.
169