INTERPRETATIONS OF QUANTUM THEORY

Aim of the course: The aim of the course is to make the students familiar with the main interpretations of quantum theory.

Prerequisites for the course: The course is self-contained; it does not presuppose the knowledge of quantum mechanics or the mathematical foundations thereof.

Course schedule:

1. A short history of quantum theory
2. The formalism of quantum theory I.
3. The formalism of quantum theory II.
4. The measurement problem
5. What is an interpretation?
6. The Copenhagen interpretation
7. Objective collapse interpetations
8. Quantum Bayesianism
9. Ensemble interpretation
10. Relational interpretation
11. Bohmian mechanics
12. Many-worlds interpretation
13. Choose your favorite interpretation!
    

Literature:

• M. Dickson: "Non-relativistic Quantum Mechanics," in J. Butterfield and J. Earman (eds.): Philosophy of Physics,  Elsevier, 2007.
• R. I. G. Hughes: The Structure and Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics, Cambridge: Harward University Press, 1989.
  
• J. M. Jauch: Foundations of Quantum Mechanics, Massachussetts: Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, 1968.
• T. Maudlin: Philosophy of Physics: Quantum theory, Princeton University Press, 2019.
  
• M. Readhead: Incompleteness, Nonlocality, and Realism, Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1987.
  
• L. Ruetsche: Interpreting Quantum Theories, Oxford: Clarendon Press, 2011.