Revisiting the Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics: From FAPP Solutions to Contextual Ontologies
Abstract
This note presents a concise and non-polemical comparison of several major interpretations of quantum mechanics, with a particular emphasis on the distinction between FAPP-solutions ("For All Practical Purposes'') versus ontological solutions to the measurement problem. Building on this distinction, we argue that the Contexts-Systems-Modalities (CSM) framework, supplemented by the operator-algebraic description of macroscopic contexts, provides a conceptually complete, non-FAPP ontology that naturally incorporates irreversibility and the physical structure of measurement devices. This approach differs significantly from other ontological interpretations such as Bohmian mechanics, spontaneous collapse, or many-worlds, and highlights the major role of contextual quantization in shaping quantum theory.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
Philosophy and History of Science
Noncommutative and Quantum Gravity Theories
Publication details
- Journal / source
- arXiv (Cornell University)
- Publication date
- 28 January 2026
- Document type
- Preprint