Quantum mechanics has been one of the most significant and arguably the most profound of fundamental developments in physical theory in this century. Quantum mechanics has affected virtually every branch of physics, other basic sciences including chemistry and biophysics, and modern technology. It has literally helped to revolutionize the world in which we live and the way in which we view or understand that world. At the most fundamental level, our conception of the universe has been transformed from the deterministic world of classical physics to an indeterministic one. This picture arises not directly from the equations or formalism of quantum mechanics proper, but from the standard or "Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics. There does, however, exist a causal interpretation of quantum mechanics that is claimed to be as empirically adequate as the generally accepted orthodox one. Such a theory requires considerably less drastic departures from or revisions of the epistemology and ontology of the classical physics community. Under this research grant, Professor Cushing will be examining why this causal approach to quantum mechanics has not been accepted. The reasons for the rejection of causal quantum mechanics involves both substantive, scientific reasons "internal" to the science itself as well as "external" sociological reasons. In this study, Professor Cushing will be determining both the internal and external factors which have led to the rejection of a causal quantum mechanics.
