Andrew M Steane 2007 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 40 3223 doi:10.1088/1751-8113/40/12/S21
Andrew M Steane
Show affiliationsThree postulates are discussed: first that well-defined properties cannot be assigned to an isolated system, second that quantum unitary evolution is atemporal, and third that some physical processes are never reversed. It is argued that these give useful insight into quantum behaviour. The first postulate emphasizes the fundamental role in physics of interactions and correlations, as opposed to internal properties of systems. Statements about physical interactions can only be framed in a context of further interactions. This undermines the possibility of objectivity in physics. However, quantum mechanics retains objectivity through the combination of the second and third postulates. A rule is given for determining the circumstances in which physical evolution is non-unitary. This rule appeals to the absence of spacetime loops in the future evolution of a set of interacting systems. A single universe undergoing non-unitary evolution is a viable interpretation.
04.60.Pp Loop quantum gravity, quantum geometry, spin foams
03.65.Ta Foundations of quantum mechanics; measurement theory
Issue 12 (23 March 2007)
Received 1 September 2006, in final form 20 December 2006
Published 7 March 2007
Andrew M Steane 2007 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 40 3223
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