Foundations of Quantum Physics in the Soviet Union

International audienceThis work highlights different episodes from the history of quantum theory in the Soviet Union. It discusses not only its scientific richness but also how the singularity of the socio-cultural and political context of the USSR played a role in the scientific creativity of its physicists. Indeed, whether it was through the collectivist approach in quantum physics, a permanent questioning of the Copenhagen interpretation or the development of statistical alternatives, Soviet contributors to a better understanding of the foundations of quantum mechanics proved to be more original and devoted to their science than influenced by their environment and the Marxist philosophy of dialectical materialism. The greatest weakness of this milieu, namely its authoritative character, also proved to be one of its strengths: It forced quantum mechanics specialists to thoroughly examine the established truths and to look for alternatives