An event centric approach to modeling quantum systems

TL;DR

This paper introduces an event-centric, first-principles approach to modeling quantum systems using causal networks of events and classical bits, successfully reproducing quantum phenomena like Bell test violations.

Contribution

It presents a novel framework deriving quantum theory from causal networks of events with minimal assumptions, linking classical information and quantum behavior.

Findings

Good agreement with quantum mechanics predictions

Violation of CHSH inequality demonstrated

Framework offers insights into quantum gravity

Abstract

Event centric approaches to modeling physics have gained traction in recent decades. In this work, we present a first principles approach to this idea, which assumes nothing but the existence of causal networks of events and their relationships. The modeling elements we employ consist solely of classical bits, or the abstract symbols $0$ and $1$. Using sequences of these symbols, we model primitive elements of causal networks consisting of two causally connected events. By introducing an epistemic constraint on observers, we derive a statistical picture of these network elements, leading to the emergence of non-determinism and the subsequent derivation of a quantum theory. We then apply this event centric framework to three physical scenarios involving spin, including a Bell test. Comparing the resulting predictions to non-relativistic quantum mechanics, we find good agreement, including a violation of the CHSH inequality. More broadly, the results presented here highlight this novel framework's explanatory and predictive power. When coupled with recent advancements in event centric approaches to modeling spacetime, we argue that this framework may provide some insight into the issue of quantum gravity.