Cause and effect and quantum field theory

In summary, quantum mechanics introduces the concept of probabilities instead of cause and effect, while QFT offers a different interpretation of the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. However, QM does not completely replace classical theories, but rather refines them. Both classical and quantum relativity have the principle that information cannot be communicated faster than light, but relativistic QFT is incompatible with local causality. Local causality is still present in classical theories, but nonlocal correlations have nothing to do with causality violations.
  • #1
arupel
45
2
Quantum mechanics replaces the classical concept of cause and effect with probabilities. The best explanation: it just is.

While the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principles hold in quantum field theory does QFT offer a different interpretation to this concept? Or at least mitigate some of the damage done to it.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
QM doesn't replace. It refines. Different matter.
And I don't see any damage whatsoever, neither in QM nor in QFT that builds on QM.
 
  • #3
Classical relativity is a theory of local causality.

This is no longer true in relativistic QFT, which is incompatible with local causality. What is common to both classical and quantum relativity is that information cannot be communicated faster than light.
 
  • #4
atyy said:
This is no longer true in relativistic QFT, which is incompatible with local causality.
This is not true. Local causality is classically embodied in the locality of the Lagrangian density and the dispersion relations for scattering, and both still hold in relativistic QFT. Nonlocal correlations as demonstrated by Bell inequalities have nothing to do with causality violations.
 
  • Like
Likes PeterDonis and BvU

Related to Cause and effect and quantum field theory

1. What is the concept of cause and effect in quantum field theory?

In quantum field theory, the concept of cause and effect is based on the idea that any change or event in the physical world is caused by the interaction of fundamental particles or fields. This means that every effect has a specific cause, and that cause can be traced back to specific interactions between particles or fields.

2. How does quantum field theory explain cause and effect?

Quantum field theory explains cause and effect by describing the interactions between particles and fields as a series of cause and effect relationships. This means that every effect is the result of a specific cause, which can be understood through the mathematical equations and principles of quantum field theory.

3. Can cause and effect be studied and observed in quantum field theory?

Yes, cause and effect can be studied and observed in quantum field theory through experimental observations and mathematical calculations. These studies have helped scientists understand and predict the behavior of particles and fields, and have led to the development of various technologies and applications.

4. What are the implications of cause and effect in quantum field theory?

The implications of cause and effect in quantum field theory are far-reaching and have important implications for our understanding of the universe. It helps us understand the fundamental building blocks of matter and energy, and how they interact to create the physical world we observe.

5. Are there any controversies or debates surrounding cause and effect in quantum field theory?

While there is no controversy surrounding the concept of cause and effect in quantum field theory itself, there are ongoing debates and discussions about how it relates to other theories, such as general relativity, and how it can be unified with other theories to create a complete understanding of the universe.

Similar threads

A Is the quantum mechanics explanation for the propagation of light adequate enough to be understood?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
626
I Is the photon field a vector field and a gauge field?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
865
A Why is Quantum Field Theory Local?
    • Quantum Physics
6
Replies
182
Views
11K
A Quantum Field theory vs. many-body Quantum Mechanics
    • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
3K
A Multiparticle Relativistic Quantum Mechanics in an external potential
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
22
Views
2K
I "Wave-particle duality" and double-slit experiment
    • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
2K
I Are All Photons Truly Virtual?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
610
A Measurement in QFT: Mapping Fields to Theory's Math Formalism
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
31
Views
2K
I Commutation relations for an interacting scalar field
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
3
Views
884
B Quantum entanglement and hidden variables
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
7
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top