Interacting scalar fields in de Sitter space

Abstract

We investigate the massless $\lambda {\varphi }^4$ theory in de~Sitter space. It is unnatural to assume a minimally coupled interacting scalar field, since $\xi =0$ is not a fixed point of the renormalization group once interactions are included. In fact, the only case where perturbation theory can be trusted is when the field is non-minimally coupled at the minimum of the effective potential. Thus, in perturbation theory, there is no infrared divergence associated with this scalar field.

12 pages, Latex file, uses epsf.sty, 2 figures in a uufile. Revision of the infrared limit in the symmetric case. Conclusions remain unchanged