Project SherlockEst. Knowledge

Paper

1994

What Is String Theory?

Joseph Polchinski

Introduces string theory to physicists outside the field, arguing that requiring a consistent quantum theory of one-dimensional objects forces general relativity and gauge symmetry to appear together.

Before you start

FreeIntermediatelink checked 17 Sept 2026

If this is the wrong level

Too hard? Start hereLectures on String TheoryDavid Tong, 2009Builds the bosonic string from the Nambu-Goto action through conformal field theory and BRST quantisation, the standard route into string theory for a physics graduate student.

Groundwork for

Works in the library that name this one as a prerequisite.

The Large N Limit of Superconformal Field Theories and SupergravityJuan Maldacena, 1997Conjectures an exact equivalence between a gravitational theory in a curved space and an ordinary quantum field theory living on its boundary, one dimension down.

Filed under Relativity & Gravitation in Physics.