A background-independent algebra in quantum gravity
Edward Witten
Abstract
A bstract We propose an algebra of operators along an observer’s worldline as a background-independent algebra in quantum gravity. In that context, it is natural to think of the Hartle-Hawking no boundary state as a universal state of maximum entropy, and to define entropy in terms of the relative entropy with this state. In the case that the only spacetimes considered correspond to de Sitter vacua with different values of the cosmological constant, this definition leads to sensible results.
Topics & Concepts
PhysicsQuantum gravityCurrent algebraQuantumTheoretical physicsAlgebra representationAlgebra over a fieldMathematical physicsParticle physicsQuantum mechanicsPure mathematicsMathematicsNoncommutative and Quantum Gravity TheoriesBlack Holes and Theoretical PhysicsQuantum Electrodynamics and Casimir Effect