On discernibility in symmetric languages: the case of quantum particles

Synthese 198 (9):8485-8502 (2020)
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Abstract

In this paper I consider the question of whether absolute discernibility is attainable in symmetric languages. Simon Saunders has proven that all facts expressible in first-order language with identity can be equivalently stated within its symmetric sublanguage. I use this result to show specifically how particles of the same type can be absolutely discerned in the permutation-invariant language of the quantum theory of many particles.

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Tomasz Bigaj
University of Warsaw

References found in this work

The structure and interpretation of quantum mechanics.R. I. G. Hughes - 1989 - Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press.
Are quantum particles objects?Simon Saunders - 2006 - Analysis 66 (1):52-63.
Quantum physics and the identity of indiscernibles.Steven French & Michael Redhead - 1988 - British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 39 (2):233-246.
Discerning Fermions.Simon Saunders & F. A. Muller - 2008 - British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 59 (3):499 - 548.
Discerning elementary particles.F. A. Muller & M. P. Seevinck - 2009 - Philosophy of Science 76 (2):179-200.

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