Conquering Mount Everett: Branch-Counting Versus the Born Rule

Explore a thought-provoking seminar on quantum mechanics and probability theory in this 1 hour 50 minute talk by Jake Khawaja from Princeton University. Delve into the concept of Indexed Branch-Counting, a proposed alternative to the Born Rule for assigning self-locating credences in quantum branching scenarios. Examine the justifications for this approach based on accuracy-theoretic grounds and exchangeability requirements for probability assignments. Consider the implications of this divergence from the Born Rule for Everettian interpretations of quantum mechanics. Address common criticisms of branch-counting, including concerns about vagueness in branch numbers. Evaluate Simon Saunders' recent attempt to reconcile branch-counting with the Born Rule and the challenges it faces. This seminar, part of the Foundations of Physics @Harvard series, offers a deep dive into fundamental questions at the intersection of quantum mechanics and probability theory.