On the Problem of Language in Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

The article deals with the problematic of language in quantum mechanics as exposed by Werner Heisenberg (1901-1976), one of its main proponents. The importance of dialogue for scientific activity is presented, mainly in connection with David Bohm (1917-1992), stressing the conflict between the openness of dialogue and the rigidity of scientific language. The problematic character of the concepts of path, velocity, space, time, elementary particles, causality, and statistical laws for quantum mechanics is presented. Heisenberg’s formulation of some of these concepts as practical a priori is paralleled with Ernst Cassirer’s (1874-1945) concept of symbolic forms. Heisenberg’s understanding of cognition of nature is introduced following some insights resulting from the development of analytic philosophy of the previous century, espe- cially concerning the relationship between language and truth. Scientific cognition about nature must encompass a description of our cognitive capabilities and be conceptually open for a dialogue with nature in Bohm’s sense.