• Quantum Events as Fundamental Changes:
  • Quantum theory deals with discrete, probabilistic events, such as electron transitions, particle decays, and quantum tunneling. These are all fundamental change events.
  • By focusing on these events as the core reality, rather than on a continuous “flow of time,” we can align quantum theory with our observable reality.
• Probabilistic Nature of Change:
  • Quantum mechanics is inherently probabilistic. We cannot predict with certainty when a quantum event will occur, but only the probability of its occurrence.
  • This aligns with the idea that change is not a deterministic, linear process, but rather a probabilistic one.
• Quantum Superposition and Change:
  • Superposition, the ability of a quantum system to exist in multiple states simultaneously, can be seen as a state of potential change.
  • The “measurement problem” can be viewed as the moment when a specific change event occurs, collapsing the superposition into a definite state.
• Quantum Entanglement and Correlated Change:
  • Entanglement, the phenomenon where two or more particles become correlated, can be seen as a correlation of change events.
  • Changes in one entangled particle are instantaneously correlated with changes in the other, regardless of distance.
• Quantum Field Theory and Change:
  • Quantum field theory (QFT) describes particles as excitations of quantum fields. These excitations are essentially changes in the field.
  • QFT emphasizes the dynamic nature of reality, where particles are constantly being created and destroyed, which are all change events.
• The Problem of Time in Quantum Mechanics:
  • Quantum mechanics, like general relativity, has its own “problem of time.” The Schrödinger equation, which describes the evolution of quantum systems, treats time as an external parameter, rather than an intrinsic part of the system.
  • By focusing on quantum change events, we can potentially develop a more intrinsic understanding of how change occurs within quantum systems.
• Quantum reversibility vs macroscopic irreversibility:
  • The quantum level events are often reversible, or ‘time symmetric’. The macro level events are not. The second law of thermodynamics, and the increase of entropy, describes this. The ‘arrow of change’ idea, allows for both situations to be true, without contradiction.

How the “Arrow of Change” Helps:

• Grounding Quantum Theory in Observable Reality:
  • By focusing on quantum change events, we can ground quantum theory in the concrete reality of what we observe in experiments.
• Resolving Interpretational Issues:
  • The focus on change can potentially help resolve some of the interpretational issues in quantum mechanics, such as the measurement problem and the nature of superposition.
• Bridging Quantum and Classical Physics:
  • By understanding how quantum change events give rise to macroscopic change, we can potentially bridge the gap between quantum and classical physics.
• Developing a More Dynamic View of Reality:
  • The “arrow of change” perspective encourages a more dynamic view of reality, where change is not just a passive background, but an active and fundamental process.

In essence, by shifting our focus from abstract concepts of “time” to concrete quantum change events, we can potentially gain a deeper and more unified understanding of quantum theory.

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