One of my current research projects have lead me to an rather interesting side problem. The basic idea is this:

If you’re given some random data streams from an unknown physical object… can you make a good argument to say that the object works on quantum principles? Obviously, there’s always a classical explanation, given that classical computers can simulate quantum computers, albeit inefficiently. However, could you call upon Occam’s Razor and argue that the simplest explanation is quantum?

To do this, one needs first a good mathematical formulation of Occam’s Razor for classical systems. It turns out that one good candidate are what’s called epsilon machines. So, I thought I’d write a quick research note of these objects:

• Epsilon Machines: Formalizing Occam’s Razor

Now… just need to find a meaningful way of quantizing it!