Quantized geometry via representation theory
In this talk I will give an overview of the spin foam approach to quantum
gravity, developed by John Baez, Mike Reisenberger, Lee Smolin and others.
States for quantum geometry are given by labelled simplicial complexes,
and transition amplitudes are defined using fun diagrammatic methods in
SU(2) representation theory. After giving the background, I will
discuss the computational difficulties that come up when trying to do calculations
in this theory and will describe new algorithms due to Greg Egan, John
Baez and myself which have allowed us to make the first computations.
No previous exposure to the subject will be assumed.
Spring
2002 CTS/PNGS meeting