A proposal for a Bohmian ontology of quantum gravity

TL;DR

This paper applies the Bohmian interpretation to loop quantum gravity, proposing a primitive ontology of atoms of space linked in a graph, aiming to clarify the ontology of quantum gravity.

Contribution

It introduces a Bohmian framework for quantum gravity using discrete space atoms as primitive objects, bridging quantum and classical space-time.

Findings

Proposes atoms of space as primitive ontology in quantum gravity

Shows how a non-local wave-function law orders space configurations

Suggests Bohmian approach as a standard for quantum gravity ontology

Abstract

The paper shows how the Bohmian approach to quantum physics can be applied to develop a clear and coherent ontology of non-perturbative quantum gravity. We suggest retaining discrete objects as the primitive ontology also when it comes to a quantum theory of space-time and therefore focus on loop quantum gravity. We conceive atoms of space, represented in terms of nodes linked by edges in a graph, as the primitive ontology of the theory and show how a non-local law in which a universal and stationary wave-function figures can provide an order of configurations of such atoms of space such that the classical space-time of general relativity is approximated. Although there is as yet no fully worked out physical theory of quantum gravity, we regard the Bohmian approach as setting up a standard that proposals for a serious ontology in this field should meet and as opening up a route for fruitful physical and mathematical investigations.