Quantum realism is consistent with quantum facts

TL;DR

This paper argues that standard quantum physics, when interpreted realistically, is consistent with key quantum phenomena and resolves foundational doubts without requiring additional entities or modifications.

Contribution

It demonstrates that the standard quantum theory can be understood as a realistic framework, addressing foundational issues without extra assumptions or interpretations.

Findings

Standard quantum physics is consistent with quantization and field-particle duality.

Quantum randomness and superposition are compatible with a realistic interpretation.

Entanglement and non-locality do not contradict a realistic view of quantum theory.

Abstract

Despite the unparalleled accuracy of quantum-theoretical predictions across an enormous range of phenomena, the theory's foundations are still in doubt. The theory deviates radically from classical physics, predicts counterintuitive phenomena, and seems inconsistent. The biggest stumbling block is measurement, where the Schrodinger equation's unitary evolution seems inconsistent with collapse. These doubts have inspired a variety of proposed interpretations and alterations of the theory. Most interpretations posit the theory represents only observed appearances rather than reality. The realistic interpretations, on the other hand, posit entities such as other universes, hidden variables, artificial collapse mechanisms, or human minds, that are not found in the standard mathematical formulation. Surprisingly, little attention has been paid to the possibility that the standard theory is both realistic and correct as it stands. This paper examines several controversial issues, namely quantization, field particle duality, quantum randomness, superposition, entanglement, non-locality, and measurement, to argue that standard quantum physics, realistically interpreted, is consistent with all of them.