David Deutsch (1985) attempt to solve the incoherence problem

In summary, Deutsch's solution to the incoherence problem involves postulating an infinite set of universes with a preferred measure, which allows for the concept of probabilities and uncertainty. This idea has been further developed by Vaidman and Carroll & Sebens.
  • #1
jxcs
4
0
Can anyone elaborate on Deutsch's attempt to solve the incoherence problem?

He postulates a continuously infinite set of universes, together with a preferred measure on that set. And so when a measurement occurs, the proportion of universes in the original branch that end up on a given branch is given by the mod-squared measure of that branch. Observers will then be uncertain about which outcome will occur in the universe they inhabit.

Is it just the case that as a result of this we can now *talk* of probabilities as we have introduced uncertainty? Whereas before it was simply the case that we cannot assign probabilities as all outcomes will definitely occur?
 
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  • #3
great, thanks!
 

Related to David Deutsch (1985) attempt to solve the incoherence problem

1. What is the incoherence problem?

The incoherence problem, also known as the problem of induction, refers to the philosophical challenge of justifying the use of inductive reasoning in science. Inductive reasoning is the process of making generalizations or predictions based on past observations or experiences. However, there is no logical or empirical basis for assuming that the future will always resemble the past, making it difficult to justify the use of inductive reasoning.

2. How did David Deutsch attempt to solve the incoherence problem?

In his 1985 paper, "A New Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics," David Deutsch proposed the idea of a multiverse, or the existence of many parallel universes. He argued that this concept could provide a solution to the incoherence problem by explaining the apparent regularity and predictability of our universe. According to Deutsch, the laws of physics that govern our universe are a result of the interaction between different parallel universes.

3. What is the significance of Deutsch's solution to the incoherence problem?

Deutsch's solution to the incoherence problem has significant implications for the philosophy of science and our understanding of the universe. It challenges traditional notions of causality and determinism, and suggests that the laws of physics may be a result of the interaction between different parallel universes. This idea has also influenced the development of the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics.

4. Has Deutsch's solution been widely accepted by the scientific community?

Deutsch's solution to the incoherence problem has been met with both support and criticism from the scientific community. While some scientists and philosophers find his ideas intriguing and thought-provoking, others have raised concerns about the lack of empirical evidence for the existence of parallel universes. Further research and experimentation in the field of quantum mechanics is needed to fully evaluate the validity of Deutsch's solution.

5. How does Deutsch's solution impact our understanding of the universe?

If Deutsch's solution to the incoherence problem is proven to be valid, it would fundamentally change our understanding of the universe. It would suggest that the universe is much more complex and interconnected than we previously thought, and that our current laws of physics may only be applicable to our specific universe. It would also open up new possibilities for scientific exploration and discovery, as we consider the potential influence of other parallel universes on our own.

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