Johannes Fankhauser

Johannes Fankhauser

Country

Austria

Affiliated institution

University of Innsbruck

Research & Interests

My research interests include Foundations and Philosophy of Quantum Mechanics​, Foundations and Philosophy of Space and Time, and Quantum Information Theory .

At the centre of my research is the question of what quantum theory tells us about the nature of reality, and the intertwined relationship between knowledge and reality, i.e. how, what we can know constrains what we can say about what is.
Currently, my focus lies in formalising the inseparability of 'subject' and 'object' in physical theories by modelling observers as physical systems with information-gathering abilities embedded in the theory, and probing how this manifests itself as measurement uncertainty in classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and intermediate theories like Spekkens' toy model.
In particular, this includes an interest in the possibility of an observer-participatory and relational understanding of quantum reality without adopting an associated anti-realist stance, as well as developing a better understanding of the nature of agency in physics.

Statement

What draws me most to BRCP is its alignment with my conviction that pursuing foundational questions in physics is essential for scientific progress (my main personal passion). I approach physics not only as an analytic discipline but also as a creative and aesthetic endeavour which I deem all significant for creating new knowledge. Moreover, I value open-minded exploration and cultivating a supportive, community-oriented environment. My research approach prioritises conceptual clarity and interdisciplinary breadth. I strongly reject a "shut up and calculate" mentality in physics. Thus, I value foundational exploration and novelty search over the incremental, objective-driven approach that dominates modern research.

My past experience with current academic practice and conference participation has been inspiring, but I have often found these lacking in dialogue depth and dedicated focus on research rather than merit. In contrast, the values of BRCP seem to permit this. Frankly, I'm grateful for the mere existence of this community of like-minded people.

I believe my curiosity-driven view on physics, and my interests and background would meaningfully contribute to the exchanges with BRCP. Conversely, I hope to benefit from being a member and interactions with other members.
Since I am currently based in Innsbruck, Austria, I plan to help organise the next annual BRCP meeting there if the board chooses Innsbruck as the venue. This could be my first major contribution to the community.