The Paraconsistent Approach to Quantum Superpositions Reloaded: Formalizing Contradictory Powers in the Potential Realm

TL;DR

This paper formalizes a paraconsistent approach to quantum superpositions, proposing that contradictory powers in a potential realm can better capture quantum phenomena, challenging traditional interpretations that avoid contradictions.

Contribution

It introduces a formal framework for quantum superpositions based on paraconsistent logic and the notions of powers and potentia, offering a novel interpretation of quantum mechanics.

Findings

Supports the consistency of contradictory powers in quantum superpositions

Provides a formalization aligning with the potential realm perspective

Challenges traditional avoidance of contradictions in QM interpretations

Abstract

In [7] the authors of this paper argued in favor of the possibility to consider a Paraconsistent Approach to Quantum Superpositions (PAQS). We claimed that, even though most interpretations of quantum mechanics (QM) attempt to escape contradictions, there are many hints -coming from present technical and experimental developments in QM- that indicate it could be worth while to engage in a research of this kind. Recently, Arenhart and Krause have raised several arguments against the PAQS [1, 2, 3]. In [11, 12] it was argued that their reasoning presupposes a metaphysical stance according to which the physical representation of reality must be exclusively considered in terms of the equation: Actuality = Reality. However, from a different metaphysical standpoint their problems disappear. It was also argued that, if we accept the idea that quantum superpositions exist in a (contradictory) potential realm, it makes perfect sense to develop QM in terms of a paraconsistent approach and claim that quantum superpositions are contradictory, contextual existents. Following these ideas, and taking as a standpoint an interpretation in terms of the physical notions of power and potentia put forward in [10, 12, 15], we present a paraconsistent formalization of quantum superpositions that attempts to capture the main features of QM.