Product Description

Ideas from quantum field theory and string theory have had considerable impact on mathematics over the past 20 years. Advances in many different areas have been inspired by insights from physics. In 1996-97 the Institute for Advanced Study (Princeton, NJ) organized a special year-long program designed to teach mathematicians the basic physical ideas which underlie the mathematical applications. The purpose is eloquently stated in a letter written by Robert MacPherson: "The goal is to create and convey an understanding, in terms congenial to mathematicians, of some fundamental notions of physics ... [and to] develop the sort of intuition common among physicists for those who are used to thought processes stemming from geometry and algebra." These volumes are a written record of the program. They contain notes from several long and many short courses covering various aspects of quantum field theory and perturbative string theory. The courses were given by leading physicists and the notes were written either by the speakers or by mathematicians who participated in the program. The book also includes problems and solutions worked out by the editors and other leading participants. Interspersed are mathematical texts with background material and commentary on some topics covered in the lectures. These two volumes present the first truly comprehensive introduction to this field aimed at a mathematics audience. They offer a unique opportunity for mathematicians and mathematical physicists to learn about the beautiful and difficult subjects of quantum field theory and string theory.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #681118 in Books
• Published on: 2000-01-27
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 2
• Binding: Paperback
• 1501 pages

Customer Reviews

Quantum Fields and Strings v 1&2: A Course for Mathematicians
Excellent expose of modern physics meeting geometry with some challenging exercises.
One minor draw back is that the lecture notes suppose the reader has a strong background in geometry/topology; nevertheless with some background reading each lecture is within the scope of a graduate student.