Computational complexity and quantum interpretations

Abstract: In computational complexity theory, it remains to be understood whether $\textbf{BQP}$ is the same as $\textbf{BPP}$. Prima facie, one would expect that this mathematical question is quite unrelated to the foundational question of whether the quantum state is an element of reality or of the observer's knowledge. By contrast, here we argue that the complexity of computation in a physical theory may constrain its physical interpretation. Specifically in the quantum case, we argue that a subjective interpretation of the quantum mechanics favors the proposition $\textbf{BQP} = \textbf{BPP}$. Therefore, if $\textbf{BPP} \subset \textbf{BQP}$, then a realist interpretation of quantum mechanics would be favored.