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Publication details

Publisher: Springer

Place: Berlin

Year: 2013

Pages: 461-484

Series: Axiomathes

Full citation:

Jonas R. Becker Arenhart, "Weak discernibility in quantum mechanics", Axiomathes 23 (3), 2013, pp. 461-484.

Weak discernibility in quantum mechanics

does it save PII?

Jonas R. Becker Arenhart

pp. 461-484

in: Axiomathes 23 (3), 2013.

Abstract

The Weak Principle of the Identity of Indiscernibles (weak PII), states that numerically distinct items must be discernible by a symmetrical and irreflexive relation. Recently, some authors have proposed that weak PII holds in non relativistic quantum mechanics, contradicting a long tradition claiming PII to be simply false in that theory. The question that arises then is: are relations allowed in the scope of PII? In this paper, we propose that quantum mechanics does not help us in deciding matters concerning that problem, since that is a metaphysical problem rather than a quantum mechanical one. We argue further that weak PII is unmotivated on metaphysical grounds. We examine three metaphysical theses (bundle theory, counting, empiricism) that may provide reasons for one to sustain PII, and we conclude that weak PII gets no independent motivation from them.

Publication details

Publisher: Springer

Place: Berlin

Year: 2013

Pages: 461-484

Series: Axiomathes

Full citation:

Jonas R. Becker Arenhart, "Weak discernibility in quantum mechanics", Axiomathes 23 (3), 2013, pp. 461-484.