Why am I me? and why is my world so classical?

TL;DR

This paper applies Nagel's distinction to quantum mechanics, proposing a realist interpretation that resolves the measurement problem and clarifies probabilities within Everett's framework.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of Nagel's distinction to interpret quantum mechanics, offering a more empirically realistic projection postulate and a resolution to the measurement paradox.

Findings

Reconciles unitary evolution with the projection postulate

Provides a clearer understanding of quantum probabilities

Proposes a version of Everett's interpretation with improved realism

Abstract

This is an attempt to apply Nagel's distinction between internal and external statements to the interpretation of quantum mechanics. I propose that this distinction resolves the contradiction between unitary evolution and the projection postulate. I also propose a more empirically realistic version of the projection postulate. The result is a version of Everett's relative-state interpretation, including a proposal for how probabilities are to be understood. Based on a talk given at the 9th UK Foundations of Physics meeting in Birmingham on 12 September 2000.