Philosophical Implications of Quantum Mechanics 209
and clear that the opposite assertions could not be defended. The other
kind, the so-called “deep truths” are statements in which the opposites
also contain deep truths.”
Einstein and his followers could not accept the tenets of the
complementarity principle with its dichotomous description in terms of
waves and particles. Instead, they adopted another dichotomy. They
believed in two levels of reality, the one which is observed and the other
which “really is”. This division is not unlike the one Kant makes
between phenomena or perceived events and noumena, or things in
themselves. Einstein’s position with regard to the completeness of
quantum theory is that while quantum mechanics presently describes
phenomena accurately enough, it is incomplete because it cannot
describe the noumena. Only a causal description could properly describe
the noumena. The Copenhagen school denies the distinction between
phenomena and noumena and like the British empiricist, believes one
can only describe that which is perceived.
Einstein believes that there is an intrinsic order within the physical
world, which exists outside of man. Bohr, on the other hand, believes
that the order we have discovered in the physical world we have imposed
through our mental activity. Einstein believes that the order was there
and we were clever enough to uncover it. The difference in these two
men’s attitude partially explains their reaction to quantum theory.
Einstein is disappointed because the order that quantum mechanics
reveals is only partial, it is incomplete and hence, so is the theory. Bohr,
however, seems quite delighted that he and his co-workers were able to
go as far as they did and reveal as much order as they were able to find.
For Einstein, the proverbial half glass of wine is half empty whereas for
Bohr it is half full.
Einstein and Bohr debated their respective positions with each
other for the rest of their lives. Even after Einstein had died Bohr, in his
mind, was still trying to answer the question raised by the man who
refused to believe that God plays dice. It way always a source of personal
frustration to Bohr that he could not win Einstein to his side.
The friendly debate that arose between the two men was like none
other before in the history of science. In previous debates, the conflict
usually centered on which of two conflicting theories provided the best
description of nature. The goals and aims of science were usually agreed
upon. In this debate, the reverse was true. Both sides agreed that
quantum mechanics provides an accurate description of the experimental