A Classification Scheme for Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics

Quantum mechanics is undoubtedly one of the most successful theories in physics, but its foundations and interpretations are still a heavily disputed topic. Quantum mechanics allows for various interpretations, but it is surprising how significant the differences can be concerning the ontological commitments of these interpretations. Before we can discuss these differences in the interpretations of quantum mechanics we propose a classification scheme that will provide a methodology to analyse and distinguish the differences of several interpretational approaches in the mathematical model, the interpretation of the respective mathematical model, the used concepts, and the ontology. The classification scheme provides a number of levels of a theory or interpretation to distinguish between these aspects.