Time, Finite Statistics, and Bell's Fifth Position

TL;DR

This paper examines issues related to Bell's theorem, including time and memory effects, finite statistical errors, and the feasibility of loophole-free experiments, using classical probability and network metaphors.

Contribution

It introduces a classical network metaphor for local realism and critiques recent anti-Bellist literature, addressing overlooked aspects of Bell's positions.

Findings

Levy's martingale theory addresses time and finite statistics issues.

Bell's conclusions are shown to be independent of probability interpretation.

Critique of recent anti-Bellist literature clarifies misunderstandings.

Abstract

I discuss three issues connected to Bell's theorem and Bell-CHSH-type experiments: time and the memory loophole, finite statistics (how wide are the error bars Under Local Realism), and the question of whether a loophole-free experiment is feasible, a surprising omission on Bell's list of four positions to hold in the light of his results. Levy's (1935) theory of martingales, and Fisher's (1935) theory of randomization in experimental design, take care of time and of finite statistics. I exploit a (classical) computer network metaphor for local realism to argue that Bell's conclusions are independent of how one likes to interpret probability, and give a critique of some recent anti-Bellist literature.