Modal Approaches in Metaphysics and Quantum Mechanics

TL;DR

This paper explores the connections between modal metaphysics and quantum mechanics, comparing philosophical notions of possibility and actuality with quantum theories like wave mechanics and Feynman paths.

Contribution

It offers a novel analysis of how modal metaphysics can inform and be informed by interpretations of quantum mechanics, especially regarding potentiality and actuality.

Findings

Identifies parallels between Leibniz's possibilities and quantum potential states

Draws analogies between Feynman paths and metaphysical possibilities

Highlights the relevance of modal logic in understanding quantum transitions

Abstract

Some interpretations of quantum mechanics use notions of possible states and possible trajectories. I investigate how this modal approach correlates with several metaphysical conceptions of a transition from potential to actual existence. The comparison is based on a discussion in contemporary analytical metaphysics of modality. I also consider an analogy between Leibniz's theory of the possibilities striving towards existence, wave mechanics of Schrodinger, and Feynman path integral.