How is the many worlds interpretation of QM related to the multiverse theory?

In summary, the concept of a multiverse, or parallel universes, can be thought of without subscribing to the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics. However, it is contradicting to believe in both the many-worlds interpretation and the idea of only one universe. It is possible to believe in a single universe with hidden dimensions and still consider the concept of a multiverse.
  • #1
bostonnew
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To my understanding you can believe in the multiverse theory without subscribing to many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics. But can you subscribe to the many-worlds interpretation while also believing there is only this one universe (and that it just has hidden dimensions).

Can someone please help me understand how these are related?
 
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  • #2
Multiverses are just parallel universes (or even distant parts of a single universe) separated informatically (no information may leak from one to another). So you may think about them regardless your metaphysical interpretation of QM, actually you may think about them without bothering about QM at all.
can you subscribe to the many-worlds interpretation while also believing there is only this one universe
In a strict meaning it is a self-contradiction: as the World splits into two (many) Worlds, we have many of them, not one.

But you may believe that there exist just one tree of Everett's worlds.
 

Related to How is the many worlds interpretation of QM related to the multiverse theory?

1. What is the many worlds interpretation of QM?

The many worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics is a theory that suggests that every time a quantum measurement is made, the universe splits into multiple parallel universes. This means that every possible outcome of a quantum event exists in a different universe.

2. How is the many worlds interpretation different from other interpretations of QM?

The many worlds interpretation differs from other interpretations of quantum mechanics, such as the Copenhagen interpretation, in that it suggests that all possible outcomes of a quantum event actually occur, rather than just one being selected.

3. What is the relationship between the many worlds interpretation and the multiverse theory?

The many worlds interpretation is often used to support the idea of a multiverse, which is a hypothetical collection of parallel universes that exist alongside our own. In this theory, each universe in the multiverse would contain a different version of reality based on the different outcomes of quantum events.

4. Is there any evidence to support the many worlds interpretation?

Currently, there is no direct evidence to support the many worlds interpretation. It is a theoretical concept that is still debated among scientists and philosophers. However, some argue that the concept of a multiverse could help explain certain phenomena, such as the measurement problem in quantum mechanics.

5. How does the many worlds interpretation impact our understanding of reality?

The many worlds interpretation challenges our traditional understanding of reality, as it suggests that all possible outcomes of a quantum event exist in different parallel universes. This means that there could be an infinite number of versions of ourselves and our universe, which can be a difficult concept to grasp and raises philosophical questions about the nature of reality.

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