Transactional Interpretation
The transactional interpretation is a proposed interpretation of quantum mechanics that was developed by John G. Cramer in the 1980s. It aims to provide a conceptual framework that resolves some of the perceived difficulties and paradoxes in the standard interpretation of quantum mechanics.
In the transactional interpretation, quantum interactions are described as "handshake" transactions between an emitter and absorber of a quantum entity, such as a photon or an electron. These transactions involve both advanced waves, which travel backward in time from the absorber to the emitter, and retarded waves, which travel forward in time from the emitter to the absorber. The advanced waves are responsible for providing the necessary boundary conditions that allow for constructive interference and the formation of the wave function.
According to the transactional interpretation, quantum events involve an offer wave emanating from the emitter and a confirmation wave coming back from the absorber. These waves are in a superposition until a successful transaction occurs, at which point they collapse into a single event. This collapse accounts for the measurement process in quantum mechanics, where an observable is determined with a certain probability.
One of the advantages of the transactional interpretation is that it provides a consistent account of both quantum phenomena and the arrow of time. The advanced waves are interpreted as being time-reversed versions of the retarded waves, ensuring that the overall transaction is consistent with the directionality of causality. Additionally, the transactional interpretation allows for a straightforward treatment of entanglement and non-locality, as these phenomena can be understood as transactions occurring over spacelike intervals.
It's worth noting that the transactional interpretation is still a subject of debate and ongoing research within the field of quantum foundations. While it offers a novel perspective on quantum mechanics, it has not gained as much widespread acceptance as other interpretations, such as the Copenhagen interpretation or the many-worlds interpretation. As with any interpretation of quantum mechanics, the choice of which interpretation to adopt often depends on personal preference and the interpretive challenges one finds most compelling.
