Quantum Mechanics as Quantum Information

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the epistemological implications and the role of basic concepts like information, physical law and matter in characterizing the physical reality. The key point will be a quantum description of this physical reality. Once fixed at ontic level two basic elements, namely the laws of physics and the matter, we argue that the underlying physical reality emerges from the interconnection between these two elements. We consider any physical process, including measurement, modeled by unitary evolution. In this context, we deduce quantum randomness as a consequence of inclusion of the observer into the quantum system. The global picture of the universe is in a sense deterministic, but from our own local perspective (as part of the system) we perceive quantum mechanical randomness. Then, the notion of "information" turns out to be a derivative concept. Thus, quantum mechanics cannot be simply intended as quantum information theory.