Module description
Quantum mechanics is the most successful physics theory ever postulated, and yet its interpretation remains a matter of much debate; all viable interpretations have surprising and counter-intuitive consequences. This course will introduce the structure of quantum mechanics and the measurement problem, and will consider various ways of interpreting or changing quantum mechanics to make it more satisfactory, and the metaphysical consequences of each of these. We’ll also look at the strange non-locality that seems to be a consequence of the theory, and consider how it arises, and exactly what form it takes.
For full details:
https://www.kcl.ac.uk/artshums/depts/philosophy/modules/level6/6aanb054.aspx
Assessment details
Summative assessment: 1 x 3,000 word essay (100%)
Teaching pattern
One one-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks.
Suggested reading list
D. Albert, Quantum Mechanics and Experience, (Harvard University Press, 1994)·
J. Ismael, “Quantum Mechanics”, Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
A. Rae, Quantum Physics: Illusion or Reality? (Cambridge, 2004)
J.S. Bell, Speakable and unspeakable in quantum mechanics, (Cambridge, 1987)