The course will provide students with essential knowledge of the main realist approaches to quantum mechanics, with the goal of reflecting on the deep interplay between physics and philosophy. Strong emphasis will be placed on the capacity to discuss problems in this field in a rigorous and clear way.
At the end of the course the student: will have a non-superficial knowledge of the different realist approaches to quantum theory as well as the arguments for and against them; will be able to understand and critically analyze a philosophical and philosophical-scientific text written by others; will be able to autonomously elaborate a philosophical analysis of the problems discussed in class.
General knowledge of metaphysics and ontology as well as of scientific practice.
Lectures by the teacher, class discussions on texts and ideas, individual work.
Oral exam with questions on the topics covered in the course. These questions will be aimed at establishing the degree to which the student has fulfilled the learning objectives (knowledge of the contents, critical analysis of texts, independence of thought). The grade reflects the achievement of the learning objectives in the following way:
-sufficient (18-23/30), fair (24-26/30), good (27-28/30), very good (29-30/30).
After a summary of the history of quantum mechanics and its mathematics, we will briefly analyze the anti-realist approaches that have historically prevailed. Next, we will see the main proposals for the realist reading of quantum mechanics, such as the theory of the pilot wave, spontaneous collapse and many worlds. In the discussion we will analyze the motivations, the arguments for and against each approach.
The course texts are indicated on the Leganto website.
Transparencies, notes, notes, additional articles or other sources, service announcements will be uploaded to the Moodle platform. All students are required to periodically consult the online platform of the course and to download the indicated materials.
Attendance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. The program is valid for both attending and non-attending students.
Students who cannot attend, Erasmus students, or with PDP or IEP can contact the teacher via e-mail to discuss individually how to approach the course.
The lecturer receives by appointment (in person or remotely).
