The EPR Paradox, Actions at a Distance and the Theory of Relativity

The Einstein Podolsky Rosen paradox is examined with the intent of determining whether it is a peculiarity of quantum mechanics or it is an inadequate comprehension of the experimental results. The example of the singlet state for separate fermions is used to specify the points of contradiction with quantum mechanics, particularly the localization of wave packets and the uncertainty principle. The contradiction between such state and the theory of relativity is discussed, in order to neutralize the assertion that no violation exists because the EPR experiments are not “useful” for human telegraphy. The key point is that, assuming the singlet state, the choice at the first detector would be a truly random one. The question whether the Schroedinger equation mandates the EPR state is debated with somewhat new points of view. An analysis of the beautiful new method of Alley and Shih is made and it shows that it does not provide a new proof for the existence of the EPR state. We urge more experimental work on this fascinating subject.