On the Possibility of a Realist Ontological Commitment in Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

This paper reviews the structure of standard quantum mechanics, introducing the basics of the von Neumann–Dirac axiomatic formulation as well as the well–known Copenhagen interpretation. We review also the major conceptual difficulties arising from this theory, first and foremost, the well–known measurement problem. The main aim of this essay is to show the possibility to solve the conundrums affecting quantum mechanics via the methodology provided by the primitive ontology approach. Using Bohmian mechanics as an example, the paper argues for a realist attitude towards quantum theory. In the second place, it discusses the Quinean criterion for ontology and its limits when it comes to quantum physics, arguing that the primitive ontology programme should be considered as an improvement on Quine’s method in determining the ontological commitments of a theory