Kim, Bryce (2016) PBR theorem and sub-ensemble of quantum state. [Preprint]

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Abstract

Pusey-Barrett-Rudolph theorem claims that $\psi$-epistemic understanding of quantum mechanics is in trouble. Not considering whether the theorem only applies for realist understanding of quantum theory, this paper instead shows that the actual issue the theorem exposes is whether every quantum state should be interpreted as representing all sub-ensemble possibilities. For example, if $|+\rangle$ was ``measured'' at time $t=0$ where $|+\rangle = (|0\rangle + |1 \rangle)/\sqrt{2}$, should we consider this quantum state as being solely $|+\rangle$, or representing all possible sub-ensembles such as $(+,0), (+,1)$? This question suggests that PBR theorem does not rule out realist/non-realist $\psi$-epistemic theory.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Kim, Bryce hungrycereal@gmail.com 0000-0002-7205-2876
Keywords:	Pusey-Barrett-Rudolph, PBR theorem, foundation of quantum mechanics, quantum measurement, quantum paradox
Subjects:	Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Depositing User:	Mr. Bryce Kim
Date Deposited:	01 Jan 2017 15:35
Last Modified:	01 Jan 2017 15:35
Item ID:	12726
Subjects:	Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Date:	13 March 2016
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/12726

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• PBR theorem and sub-ensemble of quantum state. (deposited 15 Mar 2016 23:16)
  • PBR theorem and sub-ensemble of quantum state. (deposited 01 Jan 2017 15:35) [Currently Displayed]

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