Quantum Mechanics as a Carnapian Language

Abstract

The paper discusses Carnap's claim that a proper philosophical analysis of quantum mechanics, including a determination of whether its logic has to be revised, requires a rational reconstruction of the theory. Several articulations of the notion of rational reconstruction are recalled, followed by a brief analysis of two standard criticisms of Carnap's claim. The paper suggests that adopting inferentialism overcomes both criticisms, and then considers the possibility of formulating quantum mechanics as a Carnapian language with an inferentialist semantics.