Is the Zero-Point Energy Real?

A very interesting paper by Simon Saunder from the Philosophy of Science Archive.

Abstract

I consider the arguments to show that the vacuum energy density should receive a large contribution from the zero-point energy. This is the cosmological constant problem, as it was originally framed. I suggest that the matter is interpretation-dependent, and that on certain approaches to foundations, notably Everett's, the problem is a formal one, rather than one based on physical principles.


You can download the paper from the PhilSci Archive (http://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/archive/00002013/)