Situated observation in Bohmian mechanics

Here we investigate what it might mean for a formulation of quantum mechanics to be empirically adequate. We begin by considering the measurement problem as an empirical problem and distinguishing between stronger and weaker varieties of empirical adequacy. A strongly adequate theory is one that explains the experiences of a physically situated observer. A formulation of quantum mechanics that provides such situated empirical adequacy also provides a particularly compelling response to the measurement problem. As a concrete example we consider how Bohmian mechanics explains the experience of a physically situated observer.

Automated summary

This paper investigates the empirical adequacy of formulations of quantum mechanics, treating the measurement problem as an empirical issue and differentiating between strong and weak empirical adequacy. A strongly adequate theory explains the experiences of a physically situated observer and provides a compelling response to the measurement problem. Using Bohmian mechanics as an example, the explanation of the experience of a physically situated observer is considered.