The Everett-Wheeler interpretation and the open future

TL;DR

This paper explores the interpretation of probability within the Everett-Wheeler framework of quantum mechanics, proposing a novel approach where probability is equated with degrees of truth in a many-valued temporal logic, emphasizing the openness of the future.

Contribution

It introduces a new perspective on probability as degrees of truth derived from temporal logic, linking quantum interpretation with the concept of an open future.

Findings

Probability as degrees of truth in a many-valued logic.

Everettian quantum mechanics naturally incorporates an open future.

Proposes a novel interpretation aligning time, chance, and truth.

Abstract

I discuss the meaning of probability in the Everett-Wheeler interpretation of quantum mechanics, together with the problem of defining histories. To resolve these, I propose an understanding of probability arising from a form of temporal logic: the probability of a future-tense proposition is identified with its truth value in a many-valued and context-dependent logic. In short, probability is degree of truth. These ideas appear to be new (though I expect correction on this), but they are natural and intuitive, and relate to traditional naive ideas of time and chance. Indeed, I argue that Everettian quantum mechanics is the only form of scientific theory that truly incorporates the perception that the future is open.