Time-Symmetrized Quantum Theory, Counterfactuals, and `Advanced Action'
Abstract
Recent authors have raised objections to the counterfactual interpretation of the Aharonov-Bergmann-Lebowitz (ABL) rule of time symmetrized quantum theory (TSQT). I distinguish between two different readings of the ABL rule, counterfactual and non-counterfactual, and confirm that TSQT advocate L. Vaidman is employing the counterfactual reading to which these authors object. Vaidman has responded to the objections by proposing a new kind of time-symmetrized counterfactual, which he has defined in two different ways. It is argued that neither definition succeeds in overcoming the objections, except in a special case previously noted by Cohen and Hiley. In addition, a connection is made between TSQT and Price's concept of `advanced action', which further supports the special case discussed.
Cite
@article{arxiv.quant-ph/9806002,
title = {Time-Symmetrized Quantum Theory, Counterfactuals, and `Advanced Action'},
author = {R. E. Kastner},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:quant-ph/9806002},
year = {2007}
}
Comments
Minor editorial changes and correction to figure 4. To appear in "Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics"