Understanding Correlations in Non-Realism: The Role of Extra Variables?

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In summary, there is no specific name for the extra variable in non-realism that determines the born rule and correlates spacelike distances. It is dependent on the interpretation, with different approaches such as Many Worlds and Copenhagen having their own descriptions of the mechanism. However, some interpretations, such as the Time Symmetric interpretation, do not incorporate this extra variable. Additionally, there are interpretations of quantum mechanics that deny the existence of objective reality, including Mermin's proposition that correlations have physical reality while that which they correlate may or may not.
  • #1
gva
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What is the name or term called for this extra variable inside non-realism where it can determine the born rule and correlate spacelike millions of light years away? (counterpart of hidden variable in realism (or counterfactual definiteness))
 
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I don't think there is a name for it. It is somewhat dependent on the interpretation.

In Many Worlds, a measurement (of say Alice) places the universe into a state where Bob properly matches. So branching is the mechanism. In some interpretations, it is retrocausal effects (that do not appear in other interpretations).

Each interpretation has its own basic description of the mechanism, and it either makes more or less sense depending on your own viewpoint. In the Bohmian interpretation, hidden variables are nonlocal. In the Time Symmetric (retrocausal) interpretations, hidden variables are local but reside in the future.
 
  • #3
DrChinese said:
I don't think there is a name for it. It is somewhat dependent on the interpretation.

In Many Worlds, a measurement (of say Alice) places the universe into a state where Bob properly matches. So branching is the mechanism. In some interpretations, it is retrocausal effects (that do not appear in other interpretations).

Each interpretation has its own basic description of the mechanism, and it either makes more or less sense depending on your own viewpoint. In the Bohmian interpretation, hidden variables are nonlocal. In the Time Symmetric (retrocausal) interpretations, hidden variables are local but reside in the future.

How about Copenhagen with actual collapse. This has less baggage than Many Worlds and is not so Newtonian like Bohmian and is more profound. Here observation or interaction really collapse the wave function. What is the extra variable in Copenhagen with actual collapse?
 
  • #4
gva said:
How about Copenhagen with actual collapse. This has less baggage than Many Worlds and is not so Newtonian like Bohmian and is more profound. Here observation or interaction really collapse the wave function. What is the extra variable in Copenhagen with actual collapse?
If the collapse is actual, then so is the wave function. The actual wave function means that the wave function is real, so such approach cannot be considered as non-realism. Even if the wave function is not an "extra" variable in this approach, it is a hidden counterfactual variable because the wave function is supposed to exist (in a non-collapsed form) even before measurement.
 
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  • #5
Demystifier said:
If the collapse is actual, then so is the wave function. The actual wave function means that the wave function is real, so such approach cannot be considered as non-realism.

So non-realism involves collapse that is not actual.. then it's just collapse on a paper computation, here there is classical world so it can't be non-realism too. What then interpretation then does support non-realism?
 
  • #7
Demystifier said:

Just read it. It is written "But then any interpretation of QM is “nonlocal” in that sense, including the
interpretations [5, 6, 7] that deny the existence of objective reality".

What are the interpretations that deny the existence of objective reality? Don't have reference 5,6 and 7.
 
  • #9
Demystifier said:

Just read it. Interesting. What other interpretations have non-realism. Mermin stuff is interesting and they are encapsulated in only very few sentences. Who agreed to this (and why do you object if you do):

(Mermin stated)
"My complete answer to the late 19th century question “what is electrodynamics trying to tell us" would simply be this:

Fields in empty space have physical reality; the medium that supports them does not.

Having thus removed the mystery from electrodynamics, let me immediately do the same for quantum mechanics:

Correlations have physical reality; that which they correlate does not.

The first proposition probably sounded as bizarre to most late 19th century physicists as the second sounds to us today; I expect that the second will sound as boringly obvious to late 21st century physicists as the first sounds to us today.

And that’s all there is to it. The rest is commentary."
 
  • #10
gva said:
Correlations have physical reality; that which they correlate does not.

Well while I agree with it's probable intent, a study of interpretations shows the following would be better:
Correlations have physical reality; that which they correlate may, or may not - the theory is silent on it.

Thanks
Bill
 

Related to Understanding Correlations in Non-Realism: The Role of Extra Variables?

What is an extra variable in non-realism?

An extra variable in non-realism refers to an additional factor or element that is introduced into a scientific theory or model to account for phenomena that cannot be explained by the existing variables.

Why is it important to consider extra variables in non-realism?

By considering extra variables, scientists can better explain and understand complex phenomena that cannot be fully explained by the existing variables in a theory or model. This allows for a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the natural world.

How are extra variables determined in non-realism?

Extra variables are determined through a combination of observation, experimentation, and theoretical frameworks. Scientists may also use statistical analyses and models to identify and test the significance of potential extra variables.

What challenges are associated with incorporating extra variables in non-realism?

One challenge is the potential for overcomplicating a theory or model by introducing too many extra variables. This can make it difficult to accurately test and validate the theory. Additionally, identifying and measuring the effects of extra variables can be challenging and may require advanced techniques and technologies.

Can extra variables in non-realism ever be removed?

Yes, extra variables can be removed if further evidence and research indicate that they are not necessary to explain the observed phenomena. This is an important part of the scientific process, as theories and models are constantly being refined and improved upon.

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