Synopses & Reviews
Quantum gravity poses the problem of merging quantum mechanics and general relativity, the two great conceptual revolutions in the physics of the twentieth century. The loop and spinfoam approach, presented in this book, is one of the leading research programs in the field. The first part of the book discusses the reformulation of the basis of classical and quantum Hamiltonian physics required by general relativity. The second part covers the basic technical research directions. Appendices include a detailed history of the subject of quantum gravity, hard-to-find mathematical material, and a discussion of some philosophical issues raised by the subject. This fascinating text is ideal for graduate students entering the field, as well as researchers already working in quantum gravity. It will also appeal to philosophers and other scholars interested in the nature of space and time.
Synopsis
Quantum gravity is one of the major open problems in theoretical physics, and the loop and spinfoam approach in this book is a major research area in the field. Emphasizing conceptual and foundational issues raised by quantum gravity, especially on the nature of space and time, the text is intended for researchers working in quantum gravity and graduate students.