Neither Name, Nor Number

TL;DR

This paper explores the deep philosophical and conceptual issues of quantum non-individuality, emphasizing that certain quantum systems lack well-defined particle numbers, challenging traditional notions of identity and plurality.

Contribution

It advances the discussion on quantum non-individuality by highlighting the significance of systems with undefined particle numbers, extending prior philosophical debates.

Findings

Quantum systems can lack well-defined particle numbers.

The problem of quantum non-individuality is more profound than previously thought.

Challenges traditional notions of identity in quantum physics.

Abstract

Since its origins, Quantum mechanics has presented problems with the concept of individuality. It is argued that quantum particles do not have individuality, and so, one can speak about "entities without identity". On the contrary, we claim that the problem of quantum non individuality goes deeper, and that one of its most important features is the fact that there are quantum systems for which particle number is not well defined. In this work, we continue this discussion in relation to the problem about the one and the many.