Event ontology in quantum mechanics and downward causation

TL;DR

This paper explores how quantum mechanics' event ontology supports the existence of emergent properties and downward causation, linking mind and matter through interpretations that include objects and events.

Contribution

It demonstrates that quantum interpretations with event ontologies can explain downward causation and emergent properties in entangled systems.

Findings

Quantum interpretations admit an ontology of objects and events.

Entangled systems exhibit emergent properties.

Downward causation is supported by quantum event ontology.

Abstract

We show that several interpretations of quantum mechanics admit an ontology of objects and events. This ontology reduces the breach between mind and matter. When humans act, their actions do not appear explainable in mechanical terms but through mental activity: motives, desires or needs that propel them to action. These are examples of what in the last few decades have come to be called "downward causation". Basically, downward causation is present when the disposition of the whole to behave in a certain way cannot be predicted from the dispositions of the parts. The event ontology of quantum mechanics allow us to show that systems in entangled states present emergent new properties and downward causation.