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A Peircean Interpretation of Probability in Quantum Mechanics

Publication |
2018

Abstract

The Copenhagen Interpretation of quantum mechanics presupposes a view on reality of described particles different from that of physical realism. This paper is concerned with the role of realism in quantum mechanics in the debate between proponents of the Copenhagen Interpretation (Heisenberg and Bohr) and authors of the famous paradox dealing with the inexplicability of quantum entanglement (Einstein, Podolsky, Rosen).

The differences between these two camps are rooted in a different understanding of reality. Our goal here is to show that quantum mechanics could be interpreted in terms of Peirce's metaphysical realism and his semiotic.

The applicability of Peirce's notions (e.g., probabilistic causality, indeterminacy) to principles used in quantum mechanics' interpretations, combined with the fact that Clifford algebras used in the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics are derived from Peirce's associative algebra, are good reasons for presuming that there is a common ground between the metaphysics of quantum mechanics and Peirce's realistic metaphysics derived from his semiotic.