Abstract
The Ithaca interpretation of quantum mechanics, proposed in 1996 by David Mermin, seeks to reduce the interpretive puzzles of quantum mechanics to the single puzzle of interpreting objective quantum probabilities. Some suggestions are made as to how the numerical values of quantum probabilities could be ontologically based in a world containing all the possible outcomes of all probabilistic processes. It is then shown that Hardy's paradox, discussed by Mermin, can be resolved when probabilities are interpreted in this way.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
REFERENCES
N. D. Mermin, “The Ithaca interpretation of quantum mechanics,” Pramana 51 (1998), 549-565; also available electronically at http://www.arXiv.org/abs/quant-ph/9609013.
L. Hardy, “Quantum mechanics, local realistic theories, and Lorentz-invariant realistic theories,” Phys. Rev. Lett. 68 (1992) 2981-84.
S. McCall, “Time flow, non-locality, and measurement in quantum mechanics,” in S. Savitt, ed., Time's Arrows Today (University Press, Cambridge, 1995), pp. 155-72.
S. McCall, “QM and STR: the combining of quantum mechanics and relativity theory,” Phil. Sci. 67 (Proceedings) (2000) S535-S548; see especially p. S537.
H. P. Stapp, “Nonlocal character of quantum theory,” Am. J. Phys. 65 (1997) 300-304.
N. D. Mermin, “Nonlocal character of quantum theory?,” Am. J. Phys. 66 (1998) 920-926.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
McCall, S. The Ithaca Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics, and Objective Probabilities. Found Phys Lett 14, 95–101 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1012037513872
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1012037513872