Ontological Evasions in Physics, Part 15 Entanglement as “Spooky Action”: Distance without Relation

Quantum entanglement presents correlations between particles that persist regardless of spatial separation. Traditionally, this phenomenon is described as “spooky action at a distance”, suggesting instantaneous effects across space. While mathematically precise, this framing constitutes a classic ontological evasion: it preserves the formalism of separate entities while refusing to reconceive relation as fundamental.

The evasive manoeuvre

By treating entanglement as mysterious linkage between pre-existing, spatially distinct particles, physics sidesteps the relational core of the phenomenon. The ontology remains atomistic: entities exist independently, and relation is treated as an added effect rather than constitutive of actuality.

The ontological cost

Relational actualisation is obscured. Entangled particles are conceptualised as isolated objects, linked by correlations that appear externally imposed rather than emergent from underlying interaction. Possibility and alignment are masked as instantaneous “effects” rather than understood as manifestations of relational coherence across a system.

The epistemic collapse

This evasion constrains interpretation. Predictions are accurate, but understanding is stunted. Observers cannot access the relational mechanism; entanglement is measured but not explained. Knowledge becomes a catalogue of correlations rather than insight into relational structuring.

The theological return

“Spooky action” evokes a hidden agency: an unseen force coordinating events across distance, reminiscent of divine orchestration. Physics here unintentionally mirrors theological logic, embedding the unseen as necessary to preserve formal order.

A relational reframing

Relational ontology dissolves the mystery. Entanglement reflects actualised correlation across relationally aligned systems. Spatial separation is perspectival, not absolute; coherence emerges from collective constraints, not instantaneous messaging. Possibility and actualisation are inherently relational.

Conclusion

Entanglement, when framed as “spooky action,” exemplifies ontological evasion: the relational basis of quantum phenomena is obscured by atomistic assumptions. Relational ontology restores clarity: correlations are emergent from the structure of relation, not from inexplicable distance-spanning effects.