McCabe, Gordon (2018) Loop quantum gravity and discrete space-time. [Preprint]

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Abstract

Loop quantum gravity purports to be a viable candidate for a physical theory which quantizes general relativity, and captures the discrete nature of space-time at a fundamental level. This paper subjects that joint claim to critical scrutiny. The paper begins by reviewing the canonical formulation, proceeds to an exposition of Ashtekar's 'new variables', and then details the development of loop quantum gravity, focusing on the definition of spin-network states and area operators. The paper concludes with a critical analysis of loop quantum gravity's credentials as a physical theory. A number of the widely-held beliefs, particularly those related to the discrete nature of space, are rejected as misconceptions.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID McCabe, Gordon
Keywords:	Loop quantum gravity; canonical general relativity; gauge fields; discrete space-time; Lorentz covariance; spin-networks
Subjects:	Specific Sciences > Mathematics Specific Sciences > Physics Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Gravity Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics Specific Sciences > Physics > Symmetries/Invariances
Depositing User:	Gordon McCabe
Date Deposited:	22 Aug 2018 15:11
Last Modified:	22 Aug 2018 15:11
Item ID:	14959
Subjects:	Specific Sciences > Mathematics Specific Sciences > Physics Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Gravity Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics Specific Sciences > Physics > Symmetries/Invariances
Date:	21 August 2018
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/14959

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