Why the need for background independence in String

In summary, the concept of background independence in String theory is important because it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the universe and its origins. By not relying on a specific background, the theory is able to consider all possibilities and potentialities, rather than cherry picking a background that fits a specific model. This approach also aligns with the idea of a first cause arising from a general potential or vagueness, rather than something out of nothing.
  • #1
Sam Owen
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Why the "need" for background independence in String

It seems to me in any theory the first cause is still missing regardless of whether it is background dependent or independent so what does it matter ?

What is wrong with having a background against which nature is acted out ?
 
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  • #2
All assumptions are suspect. It is not fair to cherry pick a background that happens to fit your model. It is hard to find a background that is self organizing, and very hard to have a universe with no beginning that fits any such model. The alternative is a universe that is infinitely old... and there is a preponderance of evidence that suggests otherwise. For example, where are all the sub-solar mass black holes?
 
  • #3
maybe the sub solar mass black holes are at Planck scale in the electron clouds but they only exist for an instant, long enough for a photon to pass through, an electron to exchange or a manifold to blip between dimensions
 
  • #4
Chronos said:
It is hard to find a background that is self organizing, and very hard to have a universe with no beginning that fits any such model. The alternative is a universe that is infinitely old...

There are other ways to think about the issue of first causes. Rather than getting something out of nothing you can get your something out of a "background" of everything. Out of a vagueness, or a generalised potential.

This is certainly the metaphysics suggested by the string landscape approach. Every kind of mathematical "vibration" is possible, but self-stable resonances only begin to emerge as you move from a vague infinity of dimensions towards crisper systems with very limited dimensionality.
 

1. Why is background independence important in string theory?

Background independence is crucial in string theory because it allows for a consistent and unified description of the universe at all scales. It allows for the inclusion of gravity, which is a fundamental force, in the same framework as the other fundamental forces. Without background independence, string theory would not be able to fully describe the dynamics of the universe.

2. How does background independence differ from other theories in physics?

Background independence differs from other theories in physics, such as Newtonian mechanics and General Relativity, because it does not require a fixed background structure. In these other theories, space and time are considered fixed and separate entities, whereas in string theory, they are seen as emergent properties of the underlying string interactions.

3. Can string theory still be considered a viable theory without background independence?

No, string theory would not be a viable theory without background independence. As mentioned earlier, background independence is necessary for the inclusion of gravity in the same framework as the other fundamental forces. Without it, string theory would not be able to explain the dynamics of the universe at all scales and would not be able to make accurate predictions.

4. How does background independence impact the search for a unified theory of physics?

Background independence is a key aspect in the search for a unified theory of physics. It allows for the unification of all the fundamental forces, including gravity, into one framework. This is important because it would provide a deeper understanding of the fundamental laws of the universe and potentially lead to a more comprehensive theory of everything.

5. Are there any challenges or limitations to implementing background independence in string theory?

Implementing background independence in string theory is a complex and ongoing challenge. One of the main limitations is the difficulty in formulating consistent mathematical models that are both background independent and able to accurately describe the dynamics of the universe. Additionally, there are still many unanswered questions and inconsistencies within the current understanding of background independence in string theory.

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