Locally covariant quantum field theory and the spin-statistics connection

Abstract

The framework of locally covariant quantum field theory, an axiomatic approach to quantum field theory in curved spacetime, is reviewed. As a specific focus, the connection between spin and statistics is examined in this context. A new approach is given, which allows for a more operational description of theories with spin and for the derivation of a more general version of the spin-statistics connection in curved spacetimes than previously available. This part of the text is based on arXiv:1503.05797 and a forthcoming publication; the emphasis here is on the fundamental ideas and motivation.

17pp, invited contribution to the Proceedings of the 14th Marcel Grossmann Conference (Rome, 2015). v2 Typos fixed; version to appear in Int J of Mod Phys D