Includes bibliographical references (pages 319-338) and index.
Contents:
A quantum field theory of gravity -- The functional renormalization group -- The asymptotic safety mechanism -- A functional renormalization group for gravity -- Truncations of single-metric type -- Bi-metric truncations -- Conformally reduced gravity -- The reconstruction problem -- Alternative field variables -- Matter coupled to quantum gravity -- Towards phenomenology -- Miscellanea.
Summary:
"During the past two decades the gravitational asymptotic safety scenario has undergone a major transition from an exotic possibility to a serious contender for a realistic theory of quantum gravity. It aims at a mathematically consistent quantum description of the gravitational interaction and the geometry of spacetime within the realm of quantum field theory, which keeps its predictive power at the highest energies. This volume provides a self-contained pedagogical introduction to asymptotic safety, and introduces the functional renormalization group techniques used in its investigation, along with the requisite computational techniques. The foundational chapters are followed by an accessible summary of the results obtained so far. It is the first detailed exposition of asymptotic safety, providing a unique introduction to quantum gravity and it assumes no previous familiarity with the renormalization group."- publisher
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.