The primitive ontology of quantum physics: guidelines for an assessment of the proposals

Abstract: The paper seeks to make progress from stating primitive ontology theories of quantum physics, notably Bohmian mechanics, the GRW matter density theory and the GRW flash theory, to assessing these theories. Four criteria are set out: (a) internal coherence; (b) empirical adequacy; (c) relationship to other theories; (d) explanatory value. The paper argues that the stock objections against these theories do not withstand scrutiny. Its focus then is on their explanatory value: they pursue different strategies to ground the textbook formalism of quantum mechanics, and they develop different explanations of quantum non-locality. In conclusion, it is argued that Bohmian mechanics offers a better prospect for making quantum non-locality intelligible than the GRW matter density theory and the GRW flash theory.