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On Many-Minds Interpretations of Quantum Theory

Donald, Matthew J. (1997) On Many-Minds Interpretations of Quantum Theory. [Preprint]

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Abstract

This paper is a response to some recent discussions of many-minds interpretations in the philosophical literature. After an introduction to the many-minds idea, the complexity of quantum states for macroscopic objects is stressed. Then it is proposed that a characterization of the physical structure of observers is a proper goal for physical theory. It is argued that an observer cannot be defined merely by the instantaneous structure of a brain, but that the history of the brain's functioning must also be taken into account. Next the nature of probability in many-minds interpretations is discussed and it is suggested that only discrete probability models are needed. The paper concludes with brief comments on issues of actuality and identity over time.


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Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
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Donald, Matthew J.
Keywords: quantum theory, many minds, many worlds, Everett
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Depositing User: Matthew J. Donald
Date Deposited: 23 Mar 2001
Last Modified: 07 Oct 2010 15:10
Item ID: 209
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Date: March 1997
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/209

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