Weak value controversy. (2nd October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vaidman, L.
• Is Part Of: Philosophical transactions. Volume 375:Number 2106(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-10-02
• Subjects: quantum measurements -- weak value -- two-state vector formalism; Physical sciences -- Periodicals; Engineering -- Periodicals; Mathematics -- Periodicals; 500
• DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2016.0395
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-503X

Abstract

Abstract : Recent controversy regarding the meaning and usefulness of weak values is reviewed. It is argued that in spite of recent statistical arguments by Ferrie and Combes, experiments with anomalous weak values provide useful amplification techniques for precision measurements of small effects in many realistic situations. The statistical nature of weak values is questioned. Although measuring weak values requires an ensemble, it is argued that the weak value, similarly to an eigenvalue, is a property of a single pre- and post-selected quantum system. This article is part of the themed issue 'Second quantum revolution: foundational questions'.