Quantum Theory from First Principles
An Informational Approach
Authors
Giacomo Mauro D'Ariano (University of Pavia)
Giulio Chiribella (The University of Hong Kong)
Paolo Perinotti (University of Pavia)
Content Quantum theory is the soul of theoretical physics. It is not just a theory of specific
physical systems, but rather a new framework with universal applicability. This book shows
how we can reconstruct the theory from six information-theoretical principles, by rebuilding
the quantum rules from the bottom up. Step by step, the reader will learn how to master the
counterintuitive aspects of the quantum world, and how to efficiently reconstruct quantum
information protocols from first principles. Using intuitive graphical notation to represent
equations, and with shorter and more efficient derivations, the theory can be understood
and assimilated with exceptional ease. Offering a radically new perspective on the field, the
book contains an efficient course of quantum theory and quantum information for
undergraduates. It is aimed at researchers, professionals, and students in physics, computer
science and philosophy, as well as the curious outsider seeking a deeper understanding of
the theory.
Reviews
Nicolas Gisin (Université de Genève): “An extraordinary book on the deep principles behind quantum theory.”
Scott Aaronson (University of Texas at Austin): “Part quantum mechanics textbook, part original research contribution, this book is a fascinating, audacious effort to “rebuild quantum mechanics from the ground up’, presenting it as the logical consequence of simple information-theoretic postulates. Students wishing to learn quantum information should read it and do all the exercises!”
Valerio Scarani (National University of Singapore): “I can hardly think of a more consciously, carefully crafted itinerary into these matters. After all, there are only a handful of trusted guides along these paths, and here you are in very safe hands.”
Alex Wilce (Susquehanna University): "A delightful, inspiring, and persuasive introduction to their way of looking at finite-dimensional quantum theory."
In the press
Quantum Theory Rebuilt from Simple Physical Principles
Quanta, August 30 2017.
Rebuilding Quantum Theory from Scratch
NextBigFuture, September 4 2017
Quantum Purity: how the big picture banishes weirdness
NewScientist, April 8 2015.
Quantum physics axioms back Wheeler’s It From Bit
Science News, August 13 2011.
Giacomo Mauro D'Ariano (University of Pavia)
Giulio Chiribella (The University of Hong Kong)
Paolo Perinotti (University of Pavia)
Content Quantum theory is the soul of theoretical physics. It is not just a theory of specific
physical systems, but rather a new framework with universal applicability. This book shows
how we can reconstruct the theory from six information-theoretical principles, by rebuilding
the quantum rules from the bottom up. Step by step, the reader will learn how to master the
counterintuitive aspects of the quantum world, and how to efficiently reconstruct quantum
information protocols from first principles. Using intuitive graphical notation to represent
equations, and with shorter and more efficient derivations, the theory can be understood
and assimilated with exceptional ease. Offering a radically new perspective on the field, the
book contains an efficient course of quantum theory and quantum information for
undergraduates. It is aimed at researchers, professionals, and students in physics, computer
science and philosophy, as well as the curious outsider seeking a deeper understanding of
the theory.
Reviews
Nicolas Gisin (Université de Genève): “An extraordinary book on the deep principles behind quantum theory.”
Scott Aaronson (University of Texas at Austin): “Part quantum mechanics textbook, part original research contribution, this book is a fascinating, audacious effort to “rebuild quantum mechanics from the ground up’, presenting it as the logical consequence of simple information-theoretic postulates. Students wishing to learn quantum information should read it and do all the exercises!”
Valerio Scarani (National University of Singapore): “I can hardly think of a more consciously, carefully crafted itinerary into these matters. After all, there are only a handful of trusted guides along these paths, and here you are in very safe hands.”
Alex Wilce (Susquehanna University): "A delightful, inspiring, and persuasive introduction to their way of looking at finite-dimensional quantum theory."
In the press
Quantum Theory Rebuilt from Simple Physical Principles
Quanta, August 30 2017.
Rebuilding Quantum Theory from Scratch
NextBigFuture, September 4 2017
Quantum Purity: how the big picture banishes weirdness
NewScientist, April 8 2015.
Quantum physics axioms back Wheeler’s It From Bit
Science News, August 13 2011.
