Peter Mittelstaedt Boeken

The main theme of this book is the idea that quantum mechanics is valid not only for microscopic objects but also for the macroscopic apparatus used for quantum mechanical measurements. The author demonstrates the intimate relations that exist between quantum mechanics and its interpretation which are induced by the quantum mechanical measurement process. Consequently, the book is concerned both with the philosophical, metatheoretical problems of interpretations and with the more formal problems of quantum object theory. The consequences of this approach turn out to be partly very promising and partly rather disappointing. On the one hand, it is possible to give a rigorous justification of some important parts of interpretation, such as probability, by means of object theory. On the other hand, the problem of the objectification of measurement results leads to inconsistencies which cannot be resolved in an obvious way. This open problem has far-reaching consequences for the possibility of recognising an objective reality in physics.

This book is not a textbook for learning the laws of nature, particularly physics, but rather aims to clarify concepts and properties associated with these laws. It has been developed as a collaborative effort, with each chapter originally written by one of the two authors, followed by thorough discussions and revisions. While both authors generally agree on foundational issues, they chose not to balance every viewpoint, allowing for individual perspectives to emerge in the chapters. Specifically, Mittelstaedt is responsible for Chapters 4, 9.3, 10, 11.2, 12, and 13, while Weingartner authored Chapters 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8.2, 9.2, and 9.4. The remaining sections are joint contributions. Most chapters are framed as questions, presenting arguments for and against before offering a detailed answer that includes a systematic discussion of the topic. Some chapters also provide a historical overview of the problem, highlighting significant historical responses (as seen in Chapters 6 and 9).

In 1936, G. Birkhoff and J. von Neumann introduced a groundbreaking algebraic structure in quantum mechanics, illustrating that simple observables correspond to an orthocomplemented and quasimodular lattice, Lq. This structure parallels the Boolean lattice of classical logic, suggesting a distinct quantum logic calculus applicable to quantum propositions. However, the notion that quantum propositions adhere to unique logical laws faces significant challenges, particularly regarding the universal validity of logical relationships beyond specific types of propositions.

This book explores the metaphysical assumptions in Newton's classical physics and their absence in Modern Physics theories like Special Relativity and Quantum Mechanics. It presents rational reconstructions that refine these theories without new hypotheses. The second edition expands on General Relativity, Cosmology, and quantum statistics, offering interpretations of these theories.