Interpreting Quantum Mechanics: Modern Foundations

David W. Snoke

May 2024 · Cambridge University Press

About this ebook

This novel text directly addresses common claims and misconceptions around quantum mechanics and presents a fresh and modern understanding of this fundamental and essential physical theory. It begins with a non-mathematical introduction to some of the more controversial topics in the foundations of quantum mechanics. For those more familiar with the theoretical framework of quantum mechanics, the text moves on to a general introduction to quantum field theory, followed by a detailed discussion of cutting-edge topics in this area such as decoherence and spontaneous coherence. Several important philosophical problems in quantum mechanics are considered, and their interpretations are compared, notably the Copenhagen and many-worlds interpretations. The inclusion of frequent real-world examples, such as superconductors and superfluids, ensures the book remains grounded in modern research. This book will be a valuable resource for students and researchers in both physics and the philosophy of science interested in the foundations of quantum mechanics.

About the author

David Snoke leads a laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh studying fundamental optical effects. In 2006 he was elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society 'for his pioneering work on the experimental and theoretical understanding of dynamical optical processes.' He has published over 180 articles in science and philosophy journals, and five books, including Solid State Physics, (2nd edition published by Cambridge University Press, 2020), Universal Themes of Bose-Einstein Condensation (Cambridge University Press, 2017), and the well known 'green book,' Bose-Einstein Condensation (Cambridge University Press, 1996).