Wilhelm, Isaac (2022) Intrinsicality and Entanglement. Mind.

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Abstract

I explore the relationship between a prominent analysis of intrinsic properties, due to Langton and Lewis, and the phenomenon of quantum entanglement. As I argue, the analysis faces a puzzle. The full analysis classifies certain properties of entangled particles as intrinsic. But when combined with an extremely plausible assumption about duplication, the main part of the analysis classifies those properties as non-intrinsic instead. I conclude that much of Lewis's metaphysics is in trouble: Lewis based many of his metaphysical views---his thesis of Humean supervenience, for instance, and his account of recombination---on an analysis of intrinsicality which does not sit well with quantum phenomena.

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Item Type:	Published Article or Volume
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Wilhelm, Isaac iwilhelm@nus.edu.sg
Keywords:	metaphysics, intrinsic properties, Lewis, philosophy of physics, quantum entanglement
Subjects:	General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics Specific Sciences > Physics Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Depositing User:	Isaac Wilhelm
Date Deposited:	15 Dec 2025 20:24
Last Modified:	15 Dec 2025 20:24
Item ID:	27488
Journal or Publication Title:	Mind
Subjects:	General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics Specific Sciences > Physics Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Date:	2022
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/27488

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