Snowmass White Paper: Generalized Symmetries in Quantum Field Theory and Beyond

Abstract

Symmetry plays a central role in quantum field theory. Recent developments include symmetries that act on defects and other subsystems, and symmetries that are categorical rather than group-like. These generalized notions of symmetry allow for new kinds of anomalies that constrain dynamics. We review some transformative instances of these novel aspects of symmetry in quantum field theory, and give a broad-brush overview of recent applications.

Comments: Contribution to 2022 Snowmass Summer Study. 10 pages + bibliography