A defense of backwards in time causation models in quantum mechanics

Synthese 112 (2):233-246 (1997)
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Abstract

This paper offers a defense of backwards in time causation models in quantum mechanics. Particular attention is given to Cramer's transactional account, which is shown to have the threefold virtue of solving the Bell problem, explaining the complex conjugate aspect of the quantum mechanical formalism, and explaining various quantum mysteries such as Schrödinger's cat. The question is therefore asked, why has this model not received more attention from physicists and philosophers? One objection given by physicists in assessing Cramer's theory was that it is not testable. This paper seeks to answer this concern by utilizing an argument that backwards causation models entail a fork theory of causal direction. From the backwards causation model together with the fork theory one can deduce empirical predictions. Finally, the objection that this strategy is questionable because of its appeal to philosophy is deflected.

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Phil Dowe
Australian National University

Citations of this work

Retrocausal models for EPR.Richard Corry - 2015 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part B: Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics 49:1-9.
Retrocausal Models for EPR.Richard Corry - 2015 - Studies in the History and Philosophy of Modern Physics 49:1-9.
Common causes and the direction of causation.Brad Weslake - 2005 - Minds and Machines 16 (3):239-257.

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References found in this work

The direction of time.Hans Reichenbach - 1956 - Mineola, N.Y.: Dover Publications. Edited by Maria Reichenbach.
In defense of proper functions.Ruth Millikan - 1989 - Philosophy of Science 56 (June):288-302.
The Shaky Game: Einstein, Realism, and the Quantum Theory.Arthur Fine - 1986 - Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
The Direction of Time.Hans Reichenbach - 1956 - Philosophy 34 (128):65-66.

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