Quantum Field Theory: Where do we come from? What are we? Where are we going?
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Tue, 29/11/2011 12:00 |
Nazim Bouatta (DAMTP) |
Quantum Field Theory Seminar  |
L3 |
| In recent decades, quantum field theory (QFT) has become the framework for several basic and outstandingly successful physical theories. Indeed, it has become the lingua franca of entire branches of physics and even mathematics. The universal scope of QFT opens fascinating opportunities for philosophy. Accordingly, although the philosophy of physics has been dominated by the analysis of quantum mechanics, relativity and thermo-statistical physics, several philosophers have recently undertaken conceptual analyses of QFT. One common feature of these analyses is the emphasis on rigorous approaches, such as algebraic and constructive QFT; as against the more heuristic and physical formulations of QFT in terms of functional (also knows as: path) integrals. However, I will follow the example of some recent mathematicians such as Atiyah, Connes and Kontsevich, who have adopted a remarkable pragmatism and opportunism with regard to heuristic QFT, not corseted by rigor (as Connes remarks). I will conceptually discuss the advances that have marked heuristic QFT, by analysing some of the key ideas that accompanied its development. I will also discuss the interactions between these concepts in the various relevant fields, such as particle physics, statistical mechanics, gravity and geometry. | |||