Quantum Physics, Logic and Spacetime: Variations on Finkelstein's Quantum Relativity FROM THE PUBLISHER
In this highly interesting monograph, a brief description of Finkelstein's approach to quantum theory and some of its ramifications is first given. Specifically, his suggestion that some sort of quantum-set-like structure should underlie our macroscopic perception of spacetime is developed to the point where a fair slice of fundamental physics (for a massless world) may be formally derived in an elementary fashion from the ground up. In detail, a model of what Finkelstein has called a "quantum net", in conjunction with a single Schwinger-like dynamical principle, gives rise to the standard Langrangians for: massless Dirac fermions, general relativity, and Yang-Mills fields for the gauge groups SU(n), n = 3, 4. These Lagrangians emerge replete with (Feynman) gauge-fixing terms and ghost fields.
FROM THE CRITICS
Booknews
Basing his work on David Finklestein's insight that quantum logical principles can be used to derive the basic elements of special relativity, the author aims to show that it is possible to use similar methods to reconstruct a large part of fundamental physics, as seen by a relatively macroscopic observer. Specifically, Finklestein's suggestion that some sort of quantum set-like structure (a "quantum net") underlies our perception of space-time is taken up and used. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.
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