Operational theories as structural realism

We undertake a reconstruction of the epistemic significance of research on operational theories in quantum foundations. We suggest that the space of operational theories is analogous to the space of possible worlds employed in the possible world semantics for modal logic, so research of this sort can be understood as probing modal structure. Thus we argue that operational axiomatisations of quantum mechanics may be interpreted as a novel form of structural realism; we discuss the consequences of this interpretation for the philosophy of structural realism and the future of operational theories.

Automated summary

This article undertakes a reconstruction of the epistemic significance of research on operational theories in quantum foundations, suggesting that it can be understood as probing modal structure and interpreted as a novel form of structural realism. It discusses the implications of this interpretation for the philosophy of structural realism and the future of operational theories.