Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics and Emptiness

Very interesting article on quantum theory and the Buddhist ideas of emptiness. A bit of science geekiness, but fun to read anyway. This comes from the new issue of NeuroQuantology 2009, Vol 7, No. 2. I'm just giving the abstract - but do check out the article.

Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics and Emptiness
Michele Caponigro* and Ravi Prakash †

Abstract
The underlying physical reality is a central notion in the interpretations of quantum mechanics. The a priori physical reality notion affects the corresponding interpretation. This paper explore the possibility to establish a relationship between philosophical concept of physical reality in Nagarjuna's epistemology (emptiness) and the picture of underlying physical reality in Einstein, Rovelli and Zeilinger positions. This analysis brings us to conclude that the notion of property of a quantum object is untenable. We can only speak about relational property of the object. On this basis, we are stimulated to build a new ontology of underlying physical reality: a relational ontology. Finally, we argue that Nagarjuna's view is comparable with Rovelli's interpretation of quantum mechanics. These views eliminate the privileged role of the observer.

Key Words: Interpretations of QM, Einstein, Rovelli, Zeilinger, Nagarjuna, Madhyamika, relational ontology

NeuroQuantology 2009; 2: 198 - 203

Tags: Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics and Emptiness, Buddhism, physics, Einstein, Rovelli, Zeilinger, Nagarjuna, Madhyamika, relational ontology, NeuroQuantology, Michele Caponigro, Ravi Prakash