Quantum theories with local information flow

TL;DR

This paper explores different categories of quantum theories with local information flow, challenging the common association of Bell's theorem with non-locality and proposing that local, deterministic models may be viable.

Contribution

It identifies four categories of quantum theories with local information flow and argues that local and deterministic models have been overlooked due to conflating Bell-locality with broader locality.

Findings

Examples of theories with local quantum information flow are presented.

Current no-go theorems do not exclude all local deterministic models.

Experimental and philosophical approaches can help distinguish these theories.

Abstract

Bell non-locality is a term that applies to specific modifications and interpretations of quantum mechanics. Yet, Bell's original 1964 theorem is often used to assert that unmodified quantum mechanics itself is non-local and that local realist interpretations are untenable. Motivated by Bell's original inequality, we identify four viable categories of quantum theories: local quantum mechanics, superdeterminism, non-local collapse quantum mechanics, and non-local hidden variable theories. These categories, however, are not restricted by Bell's definition of locality. In light of currently available no-go theorems, local and deterministic descriptions seem to have been overlooked, and one possible reason for that could be the conflation between Bell-locality and a broader principle of locality. We present examples of theories where a local flow of quantum information is possible, and assess whether current experimental proposals and an improved philosophy of science can contrast interpretations and distinguish between them.