Statistical physics and unfounded arguments

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a participant who has completed Weinberg's course in Quantum Field Theory (QFT) but struggles to comprehend statistical physics as presented in Landau & Lifshitz's texts. The participant questions whether their difficulty indicates a lack of understanding and seeks recommendations for books that approach statistical physics from a quantum field theory perspective. The consensus suggests that a foundational understanding of statistical physics is essential before integrating it with QFT concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Quantum Field Theory (QFT)
  • Familiarity with statistical mechanics principles
  • Knowledge of theoretical physics terminology
  • Experience with advanced physics textbooks
NEXT STEPS
  • Research introductory texts on statistical mechanics, such as "Statistical Mechanics" by R.K. Pathria
  • Explore "Quantum Statistical Mechanics" by A. O. Caldeira for a QFT perspective
  • Study the foundational concepts in Landau & Lifshitz's "Statistical Physics" to clarify misunderstandings
  • Investigate online courses or lectures that bridge statistical physics and quantum mechanics
USEFUL FOR

The discussion is beneficial for physics students, theoretical physicists, and anyone interested in the intersection of statistical physics and quantum field theory.

Gvido_Anselmi
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Hello everybody.
I've recently finished work through Weinberg's course in QFT which made my understanding of theoretical physics quite peculiar. For example, I can't understand statistical physics from Landau&Lifshitz book at all as there are a lot of unfounded arguments. I wonder firstly is it a bad sign and secondly is it possible to start study statistical physics from a FT point of view? Can anybody recommend me appropriate books?
 
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I think I should change "unfounded" by "not sufficiently founded in my opinion".
 

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