Intrinsic and extrinsic properties of quantum systems

TL;DR

This paper argues that quantum systems possess intrinsic properties aligning with philosophical realism, challenging the view that quantum mechanics contradicts realism, and introduces a new perspective on quantum-classical distinctions and measurement problems.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of intrinsic properties of quantum systems, offering a new framework that reconciles quantum mechanics with philosophical realism and addresses measurement issues.

Findings

Intrinsic properties provide a softer distinction between quantum and classical systems.

Classicality and measurement problems remain unresolved but are analyzed through intrinsic properties.

A simple quantum model illustrates the philosophical approach to quantum properties.

Abstract

The paper attempts to convince that the orthodox interpretation of quantum mechanics does not contradict philosophical realism by throwing light onto certain properties of quantum systems that seem to have escaped attention as yet. The exposition starts with the philosophical notions of realism. Then, the quantum mechanics as it is usually taught is demoted to a mere part of the theory called phenomenology of observations, and the common impression about its contradiction to realism is explained. The main idea of the paper, the physical notion of intrinsic properties, is introduced and many examples thereof are given. It replaces the irritating dichotomy of quantum and classical worlds by a much softer difference between intrinsic and extrinsic properties, which concern equally microscopic and macroscopic systems. Finally, the classicality and the quantum measurement are analyzed and found to present some still unsolved problems. A possible way of dealing with the Schr\"{o}dinger cat is suggested that is based on the intrinsic properties. A simple quantum model of one classical property illustrates how our philosophy may work.