Quantum field theory of geometry (Q2724960)

This is the text of the lecture given by A. Ashtekar. The main focus is on developing quantum field theory on a background which differs from the usual geometry of a Minkowski- or Riemannian space-time. The historical overview reviews both B. Riemann's paper from 1854 and J. Wheeler's geometrodynamics. The question is discussed whether metric or connection have to be considered as the fundamental geometric objects for physics. Then the new ingredients are introduced and are called quantum geometry. At the end of the paper, the discussion after the talk is given, speakers being Weinstein and B. DeWitt.NEWLINENEWLINEFor the entire collection see [Zbl 0964.00052].