The Everett-Wheeler interpretation and the open future

Abstract

I discuss the meaning of probability in the Everett‐Wheeler interpretation of quantum mechanics, together with the problem of defining histories. To resolve these, I propose an understanding of probability arising from a form of temporal logic: the probability of a future‐tense proposition is identified with its truth value in a many‐valued and context‐dependent logic. In short, probability is degree of truth. These ideas relate to traditional naive ideas of time and chance. Indeed, I argue that Everettian quantum mechanics is the only form of scientific theory that truly incorporates the perception that the future is open.