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Do Quantum Objects Have Temporal Parts?

Pashby, Thomas (2013) Do Quantum Objects Have Temporal Parts? [Preprint]

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    Abstract

    This paper provides a new context for an established metaphysical debate regarding the problem of persistence. I contend that perdurance, a popular view about persistence which maintains that objects persist by having temporal parts, can be formulated in quantum mechanics due to the existence of a formal analogy between temporal and spatial location. However, this analogy fails due to a `no-go' result which demonstrates that quantum systems can't be said to have temporal parts in the same way that they have spatial parts. Therefore, if quantum mechanics describes persisting physical objects then those objects cannot be said to perdure.

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    Item Type: Preprint
    Keywords: temporal parts, perdurantism, quantum objects, time, persistence
    Subjects: Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
    Depositing User: Mr Tom Pashby
    Date Deposited: 04 Jun 2013 11:00
    Last Modified: 04 Jun 2013 11:00
    Item ID: 9812
    URI: http://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/9812

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