Local Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

Initially proposed by Hugh Everett III as the “theory of the universal wave function,” the many worlds interpretation has since been developed and refined into one of the most influential ways of giving meaning to quantum mechanics. This volume explores the idea that if one adopts the many worlds interpretation, then one can avoid what Einstein called “spooky action at a distance,” the non-locality that is supposed to be a consequence of quantum entanglement according to other approaches. The essays in this volume articulate a clear and defensible formulation of the argument from locality for preferring the many worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics over its rivals and evaluate it. They question in what sense those in quantum foundations should care about locality, in particular, whether and how an interpretation of quantum mechanics must avoid action at a distance in order to maintain consistency with special relativity. Finally, these essays assess whether the many worlds theory needs a particular metaphysical or mathematical interpretation in order to achieve the aim of providing a local interpretation of quantum mechanics.