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Physical Probability in the Everett interpretation and Bell inequalities

Saunders, Simon (2026) Physical Probability in the Everett interpretation and Bell inequalities. [Preprint]

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Abstract

I define a notion of local causality LOC, closely modelled on Bell’s principle, construed as the condition that single-case probabilities cannot be modified by actions at spacelike separation. The new principle, like Bell’s, forces Bell inequalities, but with two loopholes: one is retrocausation, known to Bell, but the other is non-uniqueness of remote outcomes, a loophole only for LOC, not for Bell’s principle.
I also set out a theory of physical probability, applicable to the Everett interpretation, in agreement with the Born rule, and therefore violating Bell inequalities. I show it is consistent with LOC. Surprisingly, both loopholes are exploited. I conclude not only that probability in the Everett interpretation involves no action-at-a-distance, but that the observed violation of Bell inequalities is powerful evidence for many worlds.


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Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Saunders, Simonsimon.saunders@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
Additional Information: To appear in Alyssa Ney (ed.), Local Quantum Mechanics: Everett, many worlds, and reality, OUP (2026)
Keywords: Einstein, EPR, Bell, Everett, many worlds, nonlocality, Born rule, physical probability, quantum mechanics, entanglement
Subjects: General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics
General Issues > Causation
General Issues > Determinism/Indeterminism
General Issues > History of Philosophy of Science
Specific Sciences > Probability/Statistics
Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Specific Sciences > Physics > Relativity Theory
Specific Sciences > Physics > Symmetries/Invariances
Depositing User: simon saunders
Date Deposited: 18 Jan 2026 21:51
Last Modified: 18 Jan 2026 21:51
Item ID: 27939
Subjects: General Issues > Scientific Metaphysics
General Issues > Causation
General Issues > Determinism/Indeterminism
General Issues > History of Philosophy of Science
Specific Sciences > Probability/Statistics
Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Specific Sciences > Physics > Relativity Theory
Specific Sciences > Physics > Symmetries/Invariances
Date: 16 January 2026
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/27939

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