A formal proof of the Born rule from decision-theoretic assumptions

Wallace, David (2009) A formal proof of the Born rule from decision-theoretic assumptions.

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Abstract

I develop the decision-theoretic approach to quantum probability, originally proposed by David Deutsch, into a mathematically rigorous proof of the Born rule in (Everett-interpreted) quantum mechanics. I sketch the argument informally, then prove it formally, and lastly consider a number of proposed ``counter-examples'' to show exactly which premises of the argument they violate.

(This is a preliminary version of a chapter to appear --- under the title ``How to prove the Born Rule'' --- in Saunders, Barrett, Kent and Wallace, "Many worlds? Everett, quantum theory and reality", forthcoming from Oxford University Press.)

Keywords:	Everett interpretation Probability in quantum theory
Subjects:	General Issues: Decision Theory Specific Sciences: Physics: Quantum Mechanics
ID Code:	4709
Deposited By:	Wallace, David
Deposited On:	16 June 2009

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