Emergence, Singularities, and Symmetry Breaking

Batterman, Robert (2009) Emergence, Singularities, and Symmetry Breaking.

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Abstract

This paper looks at emergence in physical theories and argues that an appropriate way to understand so-called ``emergent protectorates'' is via the explanatory apparatus of the renormalization group. It is argued that mathematical singularities play a crucial role in our understanding of at least some well-defined emergent features of the world.

Keywords:Emergence, Symmetry Breaking, Renormalization Group, Condensed Matter, Explanation
Subjects:General Issues: Models and Idealization
Specific Sciences: Physics: Condensed Matter
General Issues: Explanation
Specific Sciences: Physics: Quantum Field Theory
ID Code:4934
Deposited By:Batterman, Robert
Deposited On:12 October 2009