'Mysticism' in quantum mechanics: the forgotten controversy
Abstract
This paper argues that a European controversy over a 'mystical' hypothesis, one assigning the mind a role to play at the material level of reality, shaped much of the debate over the interpretation of the quantum equations. It traces back the controversy to the past two decades, beginning in the late 1920s—birth of quantum theory—and concluding with Erwin Schrödinger's lectures published as 'Mind and Matter'. Becoming aware of the issues at stake can help us understand the historical, philosophical and cultural background from which today's physics emerged.
- Publication:
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European Journal of Physics
- Pub Date:
- July 2009
- DOI:
- Bibcode:
- 2009EJPh...30..807M