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Probability in physics: stochastic, statistical, quantum

Wallace, David (2013) Probability in physics: stochastic, statistical, quantum. [Preprint]

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    Abstract

    I review the role of probability in contemporary physics and the origin of probabilistic time asymmetry, beginning with the pre-quantum case (both stochastic mechanics and classical statistical mechanics) but concentrating on quantum theory. I argue that quantum mechanics radically changes the pre-quantum situation and that the philosophical nature of objective probability in physics, and of probabilistic asymmetry in time, is dependent on the correct resolution of the quantum measurement problem.

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    Item Type: Preprint
    Additional Information: To appear in "Asymmetries in Chance and Time", edited by Toby Handfield and Alastair Wilson (OUP, forthcoming)
    Keywords: quantum mechanics statistical mechanics stochastic dynamics probability objective chance
    Subjects: Specific Sciences > Probability/Statistics
    Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
    Specific Sciences > Physics > Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
    Depositing User: David Wallace
    Date Deposited: 05 Jun 2013 10:15
    Last Modified: 05 Jun 2013 10:15
    Item ID: 9815
    URI: http://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/9815

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