Quantum Counterfactuals and Locality

TL;DR

This paper critiques Stapp's quantum nonlocality argument, demonstrating that its validity depends on the chosen framework, thus challenging claims of superluminal influences in quantum mechanics.

Contribution

It shows the framework dependence of quantum counterfactual arguments, highlighting their limitations in establishing nonlocal influences.

Findings

Stapp's argument is flawed within the consistent histories framework.

Alternative frameworks do not support the nonlocality claim.

Counterfactual analysis in quantum mechanics is framework-dependent.

Abstract

Stapp's counterfactual argument for quantum nonlocality based upon a Hardy entangled state is shown to be flawed. While he has correctly analyzed a particular framework using the method of consistent histories, there are alternative frameworks which do not support his argument. The framework dependence of quantum counterfactual arguments, with analogs in classical counterfactuals, vitiates the claim that nonlocal (superluminal) influences exist in the quantum world. Instead it shows that counterfactual arguments are of limited use for analyzing these questions.