A Phenomenological Approach to Quantum Mechanics: Cutting the Chain of Correlations

Steven French suggests a new approach to quantum physics based on Husserl's phenomenological philosophy, challenging the traditional understanding of measurement in quantum mechanics. He argues that Fritz London's work with Edmund Bauer was fundamentally misunderstood and offers a radical alternative perspective in which consciousness plays a different role than previously conceived. The book combines history and philosophy, providing an analysis of London's background in physics and phenomenology, as well as an outline of Husserl's philosophy. It compares the London and Bauer understanding with other interpretations of quantum mechanics and aims to open up new avenues of thought regarding one of our most fundamental physical theories.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Steven French presents a groundbreaking new perspective on quantum physics, drawing inspiration from Husserl's phenomenological philosophy. In 1939, two physicists, Fritz London and Edmund Bauer, published a seminal work on measurement in quantum mechanics, which gained widespread recognition. However, their book has been profoundly misunderstood, both within the debate on the role of consciousness and in broader contexts.

Steven French argues that London approached the measurement process with a unique perspective, drawing upon his study of Husserlian phenomenology during his academic years and maintaining an interest in it throughout his career. This novel interpretation sheds new light on London's collaboration with Bauer and presents a radical alternative understanding of quantum mechanics.

Most interpretations of quantum mechanics adhere to the analytic tradition in philosophy. However, there has been a growing interest in continental approaches, and this book makes a significant contribution to this field. By intertwining history and philosophy, it provides a comprehensive account of London's background in physics and phenomenology, as well as an outline of the latter as developed by Husserl, Gurwitsch, Merleau-Ponty, and others. The book also offers a detailed analysis of London and Bauer's work on measurement, comparing it with other interpretations such as Fuch's QBism, Everett's Many Worlds interpretation, and Rovelli's Relational Quantum Mechanics.

The purpose of this exploratory work is to open up new avenues of thought regarding one of our most fundamental physical theories. By challenging prevailing interpretations and exploring alternative perspectives, it seeks to deepen our understanding of the complex and enigmatic realm of quantum mechanics.

Weight: 578g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198897958