From Prediction to Legibility: Quantum Mechanics as a Constructive Programme

We revisit Einstein’s distinction between principle theories and constructive theories to reassess quantum mechanics in a material–operatory key. We argue that the Bohmian reading realises the constructive ideal: it introduces microstructure (particles with positions and a guidance law) and treats the wavefunction as an operative symbol—a material structure that represents material relations and organises non-signalling global dependencies—thereby dispensing with ontological collapses. Intelligibility is treated as functional legibility: trajectories and marks stabilised by measurement render the genesis of the phenomenon traceable. The transition to the classical is described as operative stabilisation of global dependencies (rather than the mere limit ħ→0). We propose explicit evaluative criteria—ontological cost versus explanatory gain—applied to canonical cases (interference, Bell), showing that the particle/symbol asymmetry is a structural feature compatible with relativistic causality. The contribution lies in translating the principle/constructive opposition into a grammar of inscription and stabilisation, offering a processual narrative from microprocess to mark that preserves empirical adequacy while clarifying the ontological commitments of the formalism.