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The Bohmian interpretation of quantum mechanics : a pitfall for realism

Matzkin, A. and Nvrock, V (2004) The Bohmian interpretation of quantum mechanics : a pitfall for realism. [Preprint]

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Abstract

The de Broglie-Bohm interpretation of quantum mechanics (BM) has been favored as the preferred alternative to standard quantum mechanics on the ground that it allows a realist construal of the quantum world. We examine in the present work whether BM is consistent with scientific realism. Indeed, Bohmian mechanics makes strong ontological claims but accepts in principle the impossibility of generating epistemic warrants in support of its assumptions. We will argue that such a situation gives rise, at best, to an unsolvable underdetermination dilemma. This leads in turn to the following paradox: although Bohmian mechanics has frequently been invoked to reconcile quantum mechanics with realism, its status as a valid interpretation of quantum mechanics hinges nonetheless on nonevidential epistemological arguments traditionally associated with antirealism.


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Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Matzkin, A.
Nvrock, V
Keywords: Quantum mechanics, Bohmian interpretation, Realism, Classical limit
Subjects: General Issues > Realism/Anti-realism
Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Depositing User: Alex Matzkin
Date Deposited: 02 Jun 2004
Last Modified: 07 Oct 2010 15:12
Item ID: 1777
Subjects: General Issues > Realism/Anti-realism
Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Date: February 2004
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/1777

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