The Early Years of String Theory: A Personal Perspective
Abstract
Description
This article surveys some of the highlights in the development of string theory through the first superstring revolution in 1984. The emphasis is on topics in which the author was involved, especially the observation that critical string theories provide consistent quantum theories of gravity and the proposal to use string theory to construct a unified theory of all fundamental particles and forces.
34 pages; Based on a lecture presented at the Galileo Galilei Institute, to be published in a volume entitled "The Birth of String Theory" ; v2: references added; v3: sections 5 and 6 expanded
34 pages; Based on a lecture presented at the Galileo Galilei Institute, to be published in a volume entitled "The Birth of String Theory" ; v2: references added; v3: sections 5 and 6 expanded