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From Kinematics to Interference: Operational Requirements for the Quantum Principle of Relativity

Quantum Physics 2025-12-08 v1 History and Philosophy of Physics

Abstract

The quantum principle of relativity (QPR) puts forward an ambitious idea: extend special relativity with a formally superluminal branch of Lorentz-type maps, and treat the resulting consistency constraints as hints about why quantum theory has the structure it does [1]. The discussion that followed has emphasized a basic point: writing down coordinate maps is not the same thing as providing a physical theory. In particular, quantum superposition is not operationally defined by drawing multiple paths on paper: it is defined by what happens when alternatives recombine in an interference loop [2, 3]. In parallel, careful 1+1 analyses have clarified how sign conventions and time-orientation choices enter the superluminal formulas [4]. Finally, tachyonic QFT proposals suggest a possible mathematical bridge via an enlarged (twin) Hilbert space [5], although this proposal remains contested (e.g., on commutator covariance and microcausality grounds) [6]. The aim of this short note is organizational. We keep three layers separate: (K) kinematics (which maps exist and what they preserve), (O) operational content (what an experiment must actually reproduce, especially closed-loop interference), and (D/B) dynamics and bridges (how amplitudes and probabilities are generated, and how subluminal and superluminal sectors might be linked). The goal is not relativity derives quantum theory, but a clear checklist of what must be added for that ambition to become a well-posed programme.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2512.05164,
  title  = {From Kinematics to Interference: Operational Requirements for the Quantum Principle of Relativity},
  author = {Mikołaj Sienicki and Krzysztof Sienicki},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2512.05164},
  year   = {2025}
}

Comments

6 pages, 8 references, This manuscript is closely related to earlier arXiv preprints by other authors