The French crisis: Rethinking the phenomenology of quantum mechanics

Area of Science:

• Philosophy of Science
• Foundations of Physics
• Phenomenology

Background:

• Steven French's "A Phenomenological Approach to Quantum Mechanics" posits quantum mechanics, via London and Bauer's lens, fulfills Edmund Husserl's vision of physics as a "genuine science."
• French argues quantum mechanics is grounded in the "lifeworld and transcendental subjectivity," aligning with Husserl's philosophical project.
• The study acknowledges French's work as a step towards Husserl's phenomenology but suggests it is insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate Steven French's phenomenological interpretation of quantum mechanics.
• To argue for a more comprehensive phenomenological investigation into the foundations of quantum mechanics.
• To highlight the underestimation of the "constitutional history" of mathematical idealities in French's analysis.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological analysis of quantum mechanics.
• Critical engagement with Steven French's arguments in "A Phenomenological Approach to Quantum Mechanics."
• Examination of the relationship between quantum mechanics, phenomenology, and Edmund Husserl's philosophy.

Main Results:

• While London and Bauer's interpretation of quantum mechanics is inspired by Husserl's phenomenology, it does not fully realize his project.
• French's argument that quantum mechanics is a "genuine science" due to its grounding in the lifeworld is considered incomplete.
• The "constitutional history" of mathematical idealities underpinning quantum mechanics is a crucial aspect that requires further phenomenological scrutiny.

Conclusions:

• A more encompassing phenomenological investigation is necessary to fully ground quantum mechanics and avoid potential crises in the philosophy of science.
• Steven French's work, while valuable, underestimates the significance of the historical and constitutional development of the mathematical concepts used in quantum mechanics.
• Further research into the phenomenology of mathematical idealities is essential for a complete understanding of quantum mechanics as a "genuine science."