Individuation in Quantum Mechanics
Abstract
It has been claimed that the Principle of the Identity of Indiscernibles (PII) is incompatible with quantum mechanics, considered as a complete theory. Van Fraassen has argued specifically that a conflict between the two arises due to the requirements of Bose-Einstein statistics when imposed on two-particle quantum states. It is shown here that this apparent contradiction of the PII with quantum mechanics can be removed by the introduction of a natural criterion of individuality.
- Publication:
-
Foundations of Physics
- Pub Date:
- March 2011
- DOI:
- 10.1007/s10701-009-9382-x
- Bibcode:
- 2011FoPh...41..299J
- Keywords:
-
- Entanglement;
- Quantum systems;
- Local realism