Article ID: CBB001024237

Everett's “Many-Worlds” Proposal (2011)

unapi

Hugh Everett III proposed that a quantum measurement can be treated as an interaction that correlates microscopic and macroscopic systems---particularly when the experimenter herself is included among those macroscopic systems. It has been difficult, however, to determine precisely what this proposal amounts to. Almost without exception, commentators have held that there are ambiguities in Everett's theory of measurement that result from significant---even embarrassing---omissions. In the present paper, we resist the conclusion that Everett's proposal is incomplete, and we develop a close reading that accounts for apparent oversights. We begin by taking a look at how Everett set up his project---his method and his criterion of success. Illuminating parallels are found between Everett's method and then-contemporary thought regarding inter-theoretic reduction. Also, from unpublished papers and correspondence, we are able to piece together how Everett judged the success of his theory of measurement, which completes our account of his intended contribution to the resolution of the quantum measurement problem.

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Authors & Contributors
Wallace, David
Byrne, Peter
Becker, Adam
Rogers, David M.
Howard, Don
Crosilla, Laura
Concepts
Quantum mechanics
Physics
Philosophy of science
Many worlds interpretation (quantum mechanics)
Theoretical physics
Fields and field theory
Time Periods
20th century
20th century, late
21st century
Places
Copenhagen (Denmark)
Argentina
United States
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