Mathematics Colloquia and Seminars

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I review a unified algebraic approach to theories of physical systems. I then describe what is special about quantum theories of physical systems - as opposed to classical theories. In an attempt to highlight features of quantum mechanics people have been and continue to be confused about, I describe what "quantum probabilities" are and in which way they differ from classical probabilities. I then sketch the role "dephasing" and "decoherence" play in interpreting the predictions of quantum mechanics. If time permits I intend to explain how the time at which an event happens is determined in quantum mechanics, and what role causality plays in quantum theory.