Work

A Heptalemma for Quantum Mechanics

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We present a seven-pronged no-go result for quantum mechanics: a “heptalemma”. It shows that seven initially plausible theses about physical reality are jointly inconsistent with the predictions of quantum mechanics, while any six are jointly consistent. We must then decide which theses to retain and which to give up. Since different interpretations of quantum mechanics entail different responses to the heptalemma, we get a novel taxonomy of such interpretations. Beyond the application to quantum mechanics, the heptalemma offers a general diagnostic criterion for determining whether a given scientific domain should count as classical or not, and if not, how it departs from classicality.

Source: Foundations of Physics

DOI: 10.1007/s10701-026-00919-9

Authors: John B. DeBrota, Christian List

Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Language: English

Topic: Quantum Mechanics and Applications

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,390

Funder: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München