There is no measurement problem for Humeans

Abstract

The measurement problem concerns an apparent conflict between the two fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, namely the Schr¨odinger equation and the measurement postulate. These principles describe inconsistent behavior for quantum systems in so-called “measurement con-texts.” Many theorists have thought that the measurement problem can only be resolved by proposing a mechanistic explanation of (genuine or apparent) wavefunction collapse that avoids explicit reference to “measure-ment.” However, I argue here that the measurement problem dissolves if we accept Humeanism about laws of nature. On a Humean metaphysics, there is no conflict between the two principles, nor is there any inherent problem with the concept of “measurement” figuring into the account of collapse.