Preface
Relativity and quantum theory brought two profound revolutions in 20th century physics. They have become the foundation stones of modern physics. However, these two theories are not only incomplete, but also incompatible. On the one hand, the conceptual foundations of quantum theory have not been firmly laid yet. For example, it is still unknown what on earth the wave function describes and whether or not the wave function really collapses. On the other hand, the existence of quantum nonlocality implies that the absolute validity of the principle of relativity will be also challenged. For example, a preferred Lorentz frame may be required for describing the quantum nonlocal processes. Moreover, general relativity and quantum theory also conflict with each other at the most fundamental level. These facts clearly indicate that our present understandings of space-time and motion require a revolution profounder than that brought by relativity and quantum theory.
This book aims at providing a uniform basis for quantum theory and relativity. Such a basis is indispensable for a unified physical theory. As we know, the basic task of physics is to study the motion of matter in space and time. Then what is the real form of motion? Through a deep analysis of space-time and motion, it is demonstrated that the real motion is the random discontinuous motion of particles in discrete space and time, which is called quantum motion, and the microscopic and macroscopic motions are both the displays of quantum motion. As a result, what the wave function describes is quantum motion, and the evolution of quantum motion naturally leads to the dynamical collapse of the wave function. This provides an ontological basis for quantum theory. In addition, it is argued that quantum motion may also explain the maximum and constancy of the speed of light in special relativity, and provide a consistent framework for the unification of quantum theory and general relativity. Consequently, quantum motion may be the uniform basis of quantum theory and relativity. In the last part of this book, the perplexing quantum nonlocality is detailedly analyzed in terms of quantum motion. It is shown that the collapse of the wave function requires the existence of a preferred Lorentz frame. This provides a natural way to reconcile quantum nonlocality and special relativity. A principle of quantum superluminal communication is further introduced through considering the influence of the conscious observer. The analysis also leads to an interesting quantum theory of consciousness.
Reading this book requires a basic knowledge of both relativity and quantum theory. Advanced mastery of these subjects is not necessary. I appeal to the ability to reason rather than the mathematical ability of the reader. An open-minded reader may understand the new ideas in this book more easily. Since the quantum puzzle may be the most bewildering problem in the history of science, the reader must be prepared to get rid of some cherished prejudices such as the prejudice of the uniqueness of continuous motion when reading this book. Once these implicit prejudices are rejected, everyone can understand quantum. Although quantum motion may be remote from or even contradict our everyday experience of motion, it is more natural in logic and closer to reality. It is intelligible for everyone. I hope indeed that this book will appeal to all those who have been looking for a real understanding of Nature.
The ideas of this book come out of my lonely exploration in the past twenty years. I have also benefited from discussions with many researchers who are interested in the fundamental problems in physics. I want to thank them all, and apologize for not mentioning them by name. At the same time, I am very grateful to my parents Mr. QingFeng Gao and Mrs. LiHua Zhao, my wife HuiXia Liu and my lovely daughter RuiQi Gao. This book could not have been completed without their care and support.