Weak Quantum Theory: Formal Framework and Selected Applications
- Institute for Frontier Areas of Psychology and Mental Health, Wilhelmstr. 3a, 79098 Freiburg (Germany)
- Institute of Physics, University of Freiburg, Hermann-Herder-Str. 3, 79104 Freiburg (Germany)
Two key concepts of quantum theory, complementarity and entanglement, are considered with respect to their significance in and beyond physics. An axiomatically formalized, weak version of quantum theory, more general than the ordinary quantum theory of physical systems, is described. Its mathematical structure generalizes the algebraic approach to ordinary quantum theory. The crucial formal feature leading to complementarity and entanglement is the non-commutativity of observables.The ordinary Hilbert space quantum mechanics can be recovered by stepwise adding the necessary features. This provides a hierarchy of formal frameworks of decreasing generality and increasing specificity. Two concrete applications, more specific than weak quantum theory and more general than ordinary quantum theory, are discussed: (i) complementarity and entanglement in classical dynamical systems, and (ii) complementarity and entanglement in the bistable perception of ambiguous stimuli.
- OSTI ID:
- 20787708
- Journal Information:
- AIP Conference Proceedings, Vol. 810, Issue 1; Conference: Vaxjo conference on quantum theory: Reconsideration of foundations - 3, Vaxjo (Sweden), 6-11 Jun 2005; Other Information: DOI: 10.1063/1.2158709; (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0094-243X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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