How Quantum Theory Helps us Explain

TL;DR

This paper explains how quantum theory, interpreted pragmatistically, aids in understanding phenomena like interference, matter stability, and Bose-Einstein condensates, emphasizing its role in scientific explanation.

Contribution

It introduces a pragmatist interpretation of quantum states as advice to agents, providing a new account of quantum explanation for various physical phenomena.

Findings

Quantum states serve as advice to agents about beliefs.

Explains interference phenomena and matter stability.

Relates to alternative explanation approaches.

Abstract

I offer an account of how the quantum theory we have helps us explain so much. The account depends on a pragmatist interpretation of the theory: This takes a quantum state to serve solely as a source of sound advice to physically situated agents on the content and appropriate degree of belief about matters concerning which they are currently inevitably ignorant. The general account of how to use quantum states and probabilities to explain otherwise puzzling regularities is then illustrated by showing how we can explain single particle interference phenomena, the stability of matter, and interference of Bose-Einstein condensates. Finally I note some open problems and relate this account to alternative approaches to explanation that emphasize the importance of causation, of unification, and of structure.