The message of quantum science

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This collection of essays pays tribute to the fact that, despite quantum mechanics (QM) being a refined and successful theory, many issues regarding its internal consistency and interpretation remain poorly understood. The essays link foundational issues to exciting developments stemming from major experimental and technological breakthroughs in exploiting the electromagnetic field, particularly its quantum properties and interactions with matter, as well as advances in solid-state physics, including new quantum Hall liquids, topological insulators, and graphene. The volume addresses various areas, such as new interference experiments with large molecules passing through double slits that test the Kochen-Specker theorem, violations of Bell’s inequalities and the implications of entanglement, and new non-demolition measurements related to wave-function collapse. These experimental advancements have prompted challenging questions for theorists, igniting renewed interest in the foundations of QM, a topic that has intrigued physicists for nearly ninety years. This volume, stemming from a seminar program organized by the editors, offers a pedagogically inspired snapshot of many unresolved issues in foundational QM, catering to both newcomers and seasoned specialists in the field.