"Relative State" Formulation of Quantum Mechanics

TLDR

Quantizing general relativity raises serious questions about how quantum mechanics applies to space‑time geometry. The paper aims to clarify quantum mechanics foundations by proposing a new, more general formulation that subsumes the conventional one. It presents a reformulation of quantum theory suitable for general relativity, acting as a metatheory that clarifies the nature, consistency, and applicability of the older theory.

Abstract

The task of quantizing general relativity raises serious questions about the meaning of the present formulation and interpretation of quantum mechanics when applied to so fundamental a structure as the space-time geometry itself. This paper seeks to clarify the foundations of quantum mechanics. It presents a reformulation of quantum theory in a form believed suitable for application to general relativity. The aim is not to deny or contradict the conventional formulation of quantum theory, which has demonstrated its usefulness in an overwhelming variety of problems, but rather to supply a new, more general and complete formulation, from which the conventional interpretation can be deduced. The relationship of this new formulation to the older formulation is therefore that of a metatheory to a theory, that is, it is an underlying theory in which the nature and consistency, as well as the realm of applicability, of the older theory can be investigated and clarified.