The completeness, computability, and extensibility of quantum theory

TL;DR

This paper explores the foundational aspects of quantum theory by defining formal models to analyze its completeness, computability, and extensibility, aiming to clarify longstanding debates in the philosophy of physics.

Contribution

It introduces a formal causal model framework for physical theories, providing a precise basis to evaluate properties like completeness and computability in quantum theory.

Findings

Defines a formal causal model for physical theories

Clarifies the concepts of completeness, computability, and extensibility in QT

Provides a basis for future formal analysis of quantum theories

Abstract

The long lasting discussion on the completeness of quantum theory (QT) has not yet come to an end. The discussion is impeded by the lack of a clear understanding of what makes up the contents of a theory of physics in general and of QT specifically. After such an understanding has been developed, a more precise definition of global properties, such as the completeness, computability, and extensibility of a theory, is possible and necessary. This paper addresses these subjects for theories of physics and, in particular, for QT. The basis for the definition of the completeness of a theory is the proposed definition of a "formal causal model of a physical theory". The formal model can be applied to discussions of general attributes, such as completeness, computability, and extensibility.