Saving Science from Quantum Mechanics: The Epistemology of the Measurement Problem

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Emily Adlam (Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Chapman University and Institute for Quantum Studies)

Saving Science from Quantum Mechanics

The Epistemology of the Measurement Problem

Emily Adlam (Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Chapman University and Institute for Quantum Studies)

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English

Oxford University Press Inc
09 October 2025

Philosophy: epistemology & theory of knowledge; Philosophy of science; Quantum physics (quantum mechanics & quantum field theory)

The quantum measurement problem refers to a collection of unresolved questions about what happens during the measurement of a quantum system. The measurement problem must be solved in order for us to understand what kind of underlying reality could be compatible with the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics. The existing literature on the measurement problem typically views the problem through the lens of ontology and metaphysics. Adlam reconceptualizes the quantum measurement problem as a problem of epistemology, and in doing so presents a novel perspective on the issue, offering a new approach to finding valid solutions. Once we understand the importance of epistemology to the measurement problem, it becomes clear that several popular proposals have epistemic flaws which threaten their viability as solutions. This reframing helps clear the field so we can see where future research should be focused.

Saving Science from Quantum Mechanics delves into the subtle relationship between physics and epistemology, exploring how they constrain and inspire each other. It will use the measurement problem to motivate a wide-ranging account of the epistemology of science and to highlight the role of coherence in justifying the use of measurements and observations in the scientific process.

By: Emily Adlam (Assistant Professor of Philosophy Assistant Professor of Philosophy Chapman University and Institute for Quantum Studies)
Imprint: Oxford University Press Inc
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 236mm, Width: 168mm, Spine: 38mm
Weight: 454g
ISBN: 9780197808856
ISBN 10: 0197808859
Pages: 272
Publication Date: 09 October 2025
Audience: Professional and scholarly , College/higher education , Undergraduate , Further / Higher Education
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

Dr Emily Adlam is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Chapman University. She completed her PhD in theoretical physics at the University of Cambridge, and studied physics and philosophy at the University of Oxford. She is a winner of the Blaumann Prize (2023), and the annual FXQi Essay Competition (2017).

Reviews for Saving Science from Quantum Mechanics: The Epistemology of the Measurement Problem

It offers the new perspective and new approach to find thesolutions. It also helps clear the field, showing to where the future research should be directed. * NeoPopRealism Journal *