String Field Theory: A Modern Introduction

String field theory (SFT) is a rigorous and constructive formulation of string theory using the field theory formalism (second-quantization). It provides a foundation for studying applications in the literature and is organized into two parts: worldsheet theory and BRST quantization. The book focuses on constructing the closed bosonic SFT, discussing proofs of important properties, and generalizing to the superstring.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 421 pages
Publication date: 27 March 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Here is the rephrased text:
String field theory (SFT) is a comprehensive introduction to string theory, which is often presented in the worldsheet formalism, focusing on a single string (first-quantization). While this approach is intuitive and has remarkable capabilities due to the unique features of two-dimensional theories, it can become cumbersome for certain questions or even fail at a fundamental level. These motivations have given rise to SFT, an alternative description of string theory employing the field theory formalism (second-quantization). As a field theory, SFT offers a rigorous and constructive framework for string theory.

The primary objective of this book is to construct the closed bosonic SFT. The emphasis is placed on providing the reader with a solid foundation, conceptual understanding, and intuition of what SFT entails. Upon completing this book, the reader will have the necessary skills to delve into the applications found in the literature. The book is divided into two parts. The first part reviews the concepts of worldsheet theory required for building SFT, including worldsheet path integral, CFT, and BRST quantization. The second part begins by introducing general concepts of SFT from the BRST quantization perspective. It then delves into off-shell string amplitudes, providing a Feynman diagrams interpretation that serves as the basis for extracting the building blocks of SFT. After constructing the closed SFT, the author outlines the proofs of several significant properties, such as background independence, unitarity, and crossing symmetry. Additionally, the book explores the generalization to the superstring.

By utilizing the field theory formalism, SFT provides a clear and concise way to describe string theory. It offers a rigorous framework for studying the properties and behavior of strings, enabling researchers to explore various aspects of the theory in depth. With its emphasis on conceptual understanding and intuition, SFT makes string theory accessible to a broader audience, including students and researchers who may be new to the field.

In conclusion, this textbook provides an invaluable introduction to string field theory, offering a comprehensive and rigorous framework for studying string theory. By employing the field theory formalism, SFT provides a clear and concise way to describe string theory, making it accessible to a broader audience. Whether you are a student, researcher, or enthusiast, this book will serve as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of string theory and its applications.

Weight: 668g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030653200
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021