Q&A: The de Broglie-Bohm Theory
The de Broglie-Bohm Theory
Question
Hello Rabbi,
I don't know whether you're familiar with the de Broglie-Bohm theory in quantum mechanics. It seems to me that it dismantles many irrational interpretations: https://he.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/theory of_de_Broglie-Bohm
Here is an interesting (and technical) book by a Belgian physicist defending de Broglie's theory: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-319-25889-8
And here is a series of clear lectures in English on his book: https://youtu.be/1lzp2Med1Nk?si=CtzCIr4EkFQsuxMw
Answer
I'm not familiar with it, though I do know a bit about Bohm's views. But this is a place for questions, not for reading recommendations.
Discussion on Answer
That's what you wanted to know? Then the main point was missing from the book.
In my view, before the measurement there is no particle at all, so the question doesn't arise. There is a wave function. A particle in its usual (classical) sense exists only after the measurement. Bohm probably wouldn't agree with that.
In that case, what physical interpretation do you give to the wave function?
I didn't understand the question.
A wave function is a mathematical object. What reality does it correspond to?
The wave function is a mathematical object, just like gravitational force or an electromagnetic field. What do they correspond to? Do you want me to give you a description of the thing-in-itself (the noumenon)? That's a bit oxymoronic, isn't it?
Sorry. I just wanted to know how you interpret quantum formalism.
For example, do you think a particle has no position before a measurement is performed?