The Point of Primitive Ontology

Lazarovici, Dustin und Reichert, Paula (2022): The Point of Primitive Ontology. In: Foundations of Physics, Vol. 52, No. 6, 120

Abstract

Bohmian mechanics grounds the predictions of quantum mechanics in precise dynamical laws for a primitive ontology of point particles. In an appraisal of the de-Broglie-Bohm theory, the paper discusses the crucial epistemological and conceptual role that a primitive ontology plays within a physical theory. It argues that quantum theories without primitive ontology fail to make contact with observable reality in a clear and consistent manner. Finally, it discusses Einstein's epistemological model and why it supports the primitive ontology approach.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics > Mathematics
• Subjects: 500 Science > 510 Mathematics
• ISSN: 0015-9018
• Language: English