Abstract

SOLE, Albert. Muchos mundos bohmianos. Sci. stud. [online]. 2012, vol.10, n.1, pp. 105-136. ISSN 1678-3166.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1678-31662012000100005.

Bohmian mechanics is commonly characterized as just another interpretation of quantum mechanics. In this paper I defend an alternative view, according to which Bohmian mechanics is better understood as a theory that can be interpreted in many ways. After characterizing the interpretive divide between the quantum potential approach and the guidance approach to Bohmian mechanics, I show that different interpretations of the theory correspond to radically different and often incompatible ontologies or Bohmian worlds. More concretely, I discuss the possibility of an interpretation of Bohmian mechanics that is fully compatible with a purely three-dimensional ontology and I explore the main interpretive possibilities with respect to the properties of the Bohmian particles. Finally, by contrasting the different Bohmian worlds discussed, I show that the choice of interpretation within Bohmian mechanics is as relevant as it is within quantum mechanics.

Keywords : Bohmian mechanics; Interpretation; Ontology; Realism; Three-dimensional ontology; Quantum potential approach; Guidance approach; Bohmian properties.