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The Entanglement Structure of Quantum Field Systems

Lam, Vincent (2013) The Entanglement Structure of Quantum Field Systems. International Studies in the Philosophy of Science.

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Abstract

This essay considers the question of the ontology of relativistic quantum field theory (RQFT). It aims to discuss possible implications of the peculiarities of quantum entanglement and quantum non-locality within the algebraic approach to RQFT. Fundamental results such as the Reeh-Schlieder theorem do not only show that quantum entanglement is a truly central feature of RQFT, but also that quantum entanglement displays specific features that are absent at the level of quantum mechanics (QM). Although these technical results are well-known, their possible implications for the ontology of the theory have been surprisingly little discussed. In particular, I will consider how the board ontic structural realist understanding of quantum entanglement and quantum non-locality within QM naturally applies to RQFT and can contribute to the debate on the ontology of the theory. More generally, this essay aims to illustrate the relevance of the peculiar status of quantum entanglement and quantum non-locality within RQFT for the ontological debate.


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Item Type: Published Article or Volume
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Lam, Vincentvincent.lam@unil.ch
Keywords: relativistic quantum field theory, algebraic approach, ontology, quantum fields, quantum entanglement, Reeh-Schlieder theorem, non-separability, ontic structural realism
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Field Theory
Depositing User: Vincent Lam
Date Deposited: 08 Nov 2013 16:53
Last Modified: 08 Nov 2013 16:53
Item ID: 10089
Journal or Publication Title: International Studies in the Philosophy of Science
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Field Theory
Date: 2013
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/10089

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