The metaphysics of decoherence

TL;DR

This paper explores how decoherence supports a radical form of perspectival realism in quantum mechanics, especially in cosmological contexts, without resorting to multiple worlds or hidden variables.

Contribution

It provides a philosophical analysis of decoherence that advocates for a radical perspectival realism, challenging traditional interpretations without extra assumptions.

Findings

Decoherence supports a radical perspectival realism.

Cosmological decoherence emphasizes the perspectival nature of quantum states.

The interpretation avoids multiple worlds or hidden variables.

Abstract

The paper investigates the type of realism that best suits the framework of decoherence taken at face value without postulating a plurality of worlds, or additional hidden variables, or non-unitary dynamical mechanisms. It is argued that this reading of decoherence leads to an extremely radical type of perspectival realism, especially when cosmological decoherence is considered.