A Simple Explanation of Quantum Theory: Another Way of Philosophical Existence

A Simple Explanation of Quantum Theory: Another Way of Philosophical Existence Quantum Theory as Another Model of Realism Modern philosophy can be broadly divided into structuralism and post-structuralism. Structuralism corresponds to the Buddhist concept of emptiness (sunyata), while post-structuralism aligns with the Buddhist concept of the middle way or Madhyamaka philosophy. Strictly speaking, post-structuralism minus structuralism equals the middle way or Madhyamaka, which in short means observing and relativizing all ways of thinking through meta-cognition. Examples of ways of thinking include classical physics or classical mathematical realism, and structuralist ways of viewing phenomena. Besides classical mathematical and physical realism, there is also a quantum theoretical way of viewing phenomena. Philosophy, narrowly defined, consists of ontology (the study of existence) and epistemology (the study of knowledge). The form of realism we intuitively learn before higher education is Cartesian, or modernist, realism and epistemology, exemplified by classical physics and mathematics. Quantum theory refines classical physics and offers an inclusive viewpoint that encompasses classical physics. It can be viewed either as realism or structuralism, but since physics itself tends toward realism, it is conventional to regard quantum theory as realism. Classical physics, similarly, can be viewed structurally, but because it inherently assumes natural realism, it's commonly regarded as realist. Here, rather than delving into philosophical details, I'll explain quantum theory simply, without equations, in words alone, as it is beneficial for those accustomed only to classical perspectives. Before Learning Quantum Theory For those eager to jump into quantum mechanics or quantum field theory, I apologize, but first, let me briefly outline the current state of physics. Though quantum theory is described mathematically, understanding its meaning, even broadly, is essential. It is crucial that concepts resonate clearly through natural language, imagery, or narrative. The Limits of Physics? Philosophy, foundationally, is complete—not unnecessary, but its fundamental issues have been addressed, notably by post-structuralism, leaving only applied or historical philosophical studies. Physics, particularly fundamental physics, however, faces challenges. Though foundational, physics now struggles to progress significantly due to experimental and measurement limits. Physics as the Pillar of Natural Sciences Physics underpins all natural sciences, including chemistry, biology, and geology. Fundamental physics deals with particle physics and cosmology, addressing essential questions such as the nature of electromagnetism, heat, forces, and fluids. Quantum Theory as the Foundation of Physics Quantum theory includes quantum mechanics, relativistic quantum mechanics (which combines quantum mechanics and special relativity), and quantum field theory. Quantum theory describes microscopic worlds like atoms, electrons, protons, neutrons, and other particles, providing a fundamental model beyond classical atomism. Quantum field theory and the Standard Model of particle physics currently dominate physics, describing particles as excitations from underlying quantum fields. While successful, these theories still cannot fully integrate gravity and general relativity, leading to various proposed unified theories, including string theory and loop quantum gravity. Dilemmas in Physics: Experimental and Measurement Limits Unlike philosophy, physics hasn't concluded but faces significant barriers due to experimental limits. Particle accelerators and cosmic observations have practical limitations, restricting further theoretical developments. Although technological applications thrive, foundational physics searches for breakthroughs. A Brief History of Physics Physics, central to natural sciences, remains distant from connecting seamlessly with humanities. Quantum mechanics offers another ontology or realism model alongside classical mechanics. While classical physics, extending from Galileo and Newton, deals with changes in phenomena, quantum mechanics offers a fundamentally different approach. "Quantum" Does Not Capture All Quantum Theory Initially, quantum theory viewed phenomena discretely, contrasting with classical continuity. However, quantum phenomena like electron wave-particle duality challenge classical concepts significantly. Classical particles can't exhibit wave interference; electrons in quantum theory can, displaying both particle and wave properties. Schrödinger’s Quantum Mechanics Quantum mechanics, particularly Schrödinger's equation and wave functions, describes electron states around protons in atoms, differing fundamentally from classical orbital mechanics. Quantum theory treats particles probabilistically, with outcomes determined only upon measurement. Wave Functions and Operators Quantum mechanics uses wave functions and operators to predict physical quantities probabilistically. Unlike classical physics' determinism, quantum states exist as probability clouds until measurement collapses them to specific outcomes. The Measurement Problem Quantum theory posits simultaneous existence of all possible states until measured, illustrated by Schrödinger’s cat thought experiment. Measurement collapses possibilities into reality, a concept challenging classical intuition. Quantum Mechanics Procedures Quantum mechanics involves applying operators to wave functions to predict outcomes probabilistically, highlighting complexity beyond classical deterministic approaches. Relativistic Quantum Mechanics Dirac incorporated special relativity into quantum mechanics, introducing concepts like spin and antiparticles, enhancing quantum theory’s explanatory power. The Standard Model of Particle Physics Particle accelerators discovered many particles, explained by theories like the Standard Model, which catalog particles and interactions, successfully predicting particles like the Higgs boson. Particles and Fields Transitioning from particle-focused quantum mechanics to field-centered quantum field theory involves treating particles as excitations of underlying quantum fields, allowing dynamic particle creation and annihilation. Quantum Field Theory Quantum field theory uses state vectors and operators analogous to quantum mechanics, offering a sophisticated framework explaining particle interactions comprehensively. Limitations of Quantum Field Theory Despite its success, quantum field theory struggles to incorporate gravity, prompting proposals for unified theories like string theory and gauge theories, though experimental verification remains challenging. Quantum Theory and Philosophical Ontology and Epistemology Quantum theory can be viewed through realism or structuralism, differing significantly from classical realism. Quantum states encompass multiple possibilities simultaneously, collapsing into definite outcomes upon measurement, representing a fundamental philosophical shift. Thus, quantum theory represents a richer, broader, yet less familiar philosophical approach than classical physics, deserving greater understanding and application.