Overview

• Nature’s survey of more than 1,100 physicists reveals deep disagreements over foundational interpretations, with no single view commanding majority support.
• Researchers remain split on whether quantum theory describes an objective reality or functions solely as a predictive framework, underscoring a lasting realist–epistemic divide.
• XENONnT’s latest dark-matter measurements have ruled out several proposed interpretations that call for changes to the Schrödinger equation.
• Thought experiments by Daniela Frauchiger and Renato Renner have further constrained which foundational claims can coexist in quantum theory.
• Philosophers and physicists, including Alyssa Ney, are urging integrated dialogue to standardize terminology and sharpen conceptual frameworks in quantum foundations research.