Quantum Foundations Podcast Testing quantum observers on quantum computers with Dr Will Zeng
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Jan 22, 2026 Dr. Will Zeng, founder of the Unitary Foundation, dives into the intriguing world of quantum observers. He explores how placing an observer in superposition could reshape our understanding of reality. Zeng discusses the measurement problem, local agency, and the implications of violating local friendliness inequalities. He shares insights from recent experiments using photonic qubits, and outlines a roadmap for testing increasingly realistic observers, including the potential for quantum Artificial General Intelligence. This episode is a thrilling journey into the heart of quantum mechanics!
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Undefined Cut Between Quantum Rules
- Quantum mechanics uses two evolution rules but gives no clear criterion for when to apply the measurement rule.
- This vagueness creates the measurement problem centered on undefined terms like "measurement" and "observer."
Wigner's Friend Thought Experiment
- Will Zeng recounts Wigner's friend: a friend measures inside a sealed lab while Wigner outside treats the whole lab quantum mechanically.
- The friend sees a definite outcome while Wigner describes a superposition, highlighting observer-relative descriptions.
Local Friendliness As Theory-Independent Test
- Local friendliness combines absoluteness of observed events with local agency to form testable meta-assumptions.
- Violating derived inequalities rules out that joint class of realist theories across many possible physical models.