QFT & GR: Essential to Learn Before String Theory?

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Understanding Quantum Field Theory (QFT) and General Relativity (GR) is crucial before delving into string theory. QFT is particularly emphasized as essential due to its foundational role in the mathematical framework of string theory. While both QFT and GR contribute to the language and concepts used in string theory, a solid grasp of QFT is deemed more critical. GR, while useful, is secondary in importance compared to the necessity of mastering QFT for a comprehensive understanding of string theory.

How essential is it?

  • Not really

    Votes: 1 33.3%
  • Recommended

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Very

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Absolutely

    Votes: 2 66.7%

  • Total voters
    3
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How essential is it to know QFT and/or GR before learning string theory?

Is QFT more important or both equally as important?
 
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Well given that string theory uses language from both areas, I'd say it was very important to have a working knowledge of GR and QFT before trying to learn that mathematics of string theory.
 
QFT for certain, GR is useful.
 
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TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...

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