On Wigner's Views Of Measurement Problem

Eugene Paul Wigner was a towering leader of modern physics for more than half of the twentieth century. While his greatest renown was associated with the introduction of symmetry theory to quantum physics and chemistry, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in physics for 1963, his scientific work encompassed an astonishing breadth of science, perhaps unparalleled during his time.Born and educated in Hungary and trained as a chemical engineer in Hungary and Germany (he got his Doctor in Engineering degree in 1925), Wigner developed an interest in physics (published his first paper in 1923) at a time physics was experiencing a profound conceptual revolution at the fundamental level, epitomized by the theory of relativity, the development of the nuclear model of the atom, and the quantum theory of matter and radiation, that affected profoundly science and technology. Eventually Wigner became one of the greatest physicists of all times, even though he never had a formal college physics education.While foundation of quantum mechanics opens a door for human beings to explore microcosm, it brings countless puzzles and riddles. As most of contemporary physicist, Wigner was deeply puzzled by the peculiar laws in physics and new characteristics of quantum mechanics. When trying to resolve these problems, based on the understanding of measurement problem, Wigner developed some particular views on physics, even on whole science. These views are very significant in theory and in practice for promoting the development of philosophy of science, particularly for our understanding on science. At the present time, research on Wigner's thoughts of philosophy of science is very popular in other countries. By contrast, research on this field is scarce in our country. This dissertation, based on the description of Wigner's scientific works and philosophical thoughts, analyses and evaluates his thoughts of philosophy of science.The main contents of this dissertation consist of six parts: introduction, chapter one, chapter two, chapter three, chapter four, and conclusion. Chapter one presents Wigner's life and scientific achievements briefly. Chapter two explains the origin of measurement problem in quantum theory and introduces the John von Neumann's model of measurement. Chapter three sums up and analyses Wigner's standpoints and views of measurement problem, and describe his views of physical reality developed from his views of measurement problem. Chapter four analyses and evaluates wigner's views on the basis of the development of physics and philosophy, and points out wigner's later change of position.At last, the author hope that this dissertation would benefit the later research on philosophy of science, particularly on philosophy of physics.