Humean Chance in Physics

Abstract

Some of the most compelling examples of the existence of truly objective probabilities come from physics, in particular quantum physics and statistical mechanics. So it is crucial to the overall success of HOC that it be compatible with the objective probabilities found in these theories. First, objective probabilities in classical (Boltzmannian) statistical mechanics (SM) are discussed. It is shown that HOC does capture the central probabilistic postulates of SM, and indeed that it may do so in two distinct ways. Second, objective probabilities in standard, non-relativistic quantum mechanics (QM), the context in which the notion that fundamental physics is at bottom chancy first became widely accepted, are discussed. It is shown that HOC is especially apt for capturing the probabilities of QM; other accounts may do equally well (though some clearly do not), but none can do the job better.