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Limitations on stochastic localization models of state vector reduction

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Abstract

Recently, Ghirardi, Rimini, Weber, and Pearle have proposed a stochastic modification of the Schrödinger equation which dynamically suppresses coherent superpositions of macroscopically distinguishable states and so avoids the infamous cat paradox. We show that the modified dynamics reduces the state vector completely only in the limit of infinite time, and therefore, for any finite timet, no objective local property can be meaningfully assigned to measurement outcomes. Since a physical mechanism giving rise to stochastic spontaneous localizations of the state vector is lacking, we argue that the model (however heuristically interesting) turns out to bead hoc. Finally, we discuss consequences of this latter feature in association with the elusiveness of the two new ‘constants of nature’ appearing in the model.

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Karakostas, V. Limitations on stochastic localization models of state vector reduction. Int J Theor Phys 33, 1645–1659 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00672689

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