Michael Epperson

This paper introduces a topological approach to decoherence that can be seen as an extension of the consistent histories approach to quantum mechanics. The approach uses the formal tools of categorical algebraic topology and sheaf theory to capture the relationship between a global description of a quantum system in terms non-commutative algebras of quantum observables and a local description in terms of local commutative algebras associated with particular measurement contexts. We claim that the difference between the algebraic structure of quantum observables and the algebraic structure of quasi-classical observables at suitable coarse-grained scales is essentially ignored in the consistent histories approach to decoherence, and that the notorious problems of the approach can be overcome by an appropriate topological treatment of this difference. We describe decoherence as a process, in which a global quantum description is reduced to local quasi-classical descriptions according to specific topological compatibility conditions .

https://web.archive.org/web/20151018002755/http://www.ctr4process.org/research/science-religion/quantum-physics-process-philosophy-and-matters-religious-concern

The purposes of the conference are (1) to explore the extent to which the process philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead can be employed to interpret the findings of quantum physics in a way that is intuitively intelligible and religiously helpful; (2) to explore the relation between the ontological interpretation suggested by Whiteheads philosophy and that developed by David Bohm and B. J. Hiley; and (3) to share the results of these explorations with the public. This sharing of results takes place in four ways: (a) lectures by participants intended for laypeople as well as fellow participants; (b) discussions among the participants carried on in front of the audience; (c) times for audience participation; and (d) a book resulting from the conference. The religious themes of the conference include: (1) the religious importance of having a realistic (ontological) interpretation of quantum physics; (2) the relation between quantum indeterminacy and human freedom; (3) the more general relation between quantum events and the mind-body problem; (4) the question of whether quantum nonlocality is relevant to a spiritual interpretation of the universe; (5) the relevance of quantum physics for the question of cosmic purpose.

Invited Speakers:

B. J. Hiley

"Process and the Implicate Order: Their Relevance to Quantum Theory and Mind"

Shimon Malin 

"What are Quantum States?"

Michael Epperson 

"Bridging Necessity and Contingency: The Scientific Rehabilitation of Process Metaphysics"

Reginald Cahill 

"Process Physics: Self-Referential Information and Experiential Reality"

David Ray Griffin

"Whiteheadian Physics: Its Implications for Time, Consciousness, and Freedom"