Introduction to the Quantum Theory of Gravity via Asymptotic Safety

We give an introduction to the formulation towards the quantum theory of gravity using the functional (or exact) renormalization group, the so-called asymptotic safety. First we briefly explain the necessity of quantization of gravity and why the Einstein gravity is not sufficient for this purpose. Second, we introduce the functional renormalization group equation and explain what is the asymptotic safety program to achieve the quantum theory of gravity. This includes the notion of relevant, irrelevant and marginal operators, and it is important that there are finite number of relevant operators to make any prediction of quantum effects. This gives a nonperturbatively renormalizable theory of gravity. We then discuss various examples how the program may be applied to various theories, and summarize the current status of this approach.

(Tentative schedule)

[Day 1: Jan. 24, 2023]
Free discussion: 9:30 - 10:30
Lecture 1: 10:30 - 12:00
Lunch: 12:00 - 13:30
Lecture 2: 13:30 - 15:00
Break: 15:00 - 15:30
Lecture 3: 15:30 - 17:00

[Day 2: Jan. 25, 2023]
Free discussion: 9:30 - 10:30
Lecture 4: 10:30 - 12:00
Lunch: 12:00 - 13:30
Lecture 5: 13:30 - 15:00
Break: 15:00 - 15:30
Lecture 6: 15:30 - 17:00

[Day 3: Jan. 26, 2023]
Q&A + discussion: 9:30 - 15:00