Black Holes, String Theory and the Fundamental Laws of Nature
FYSEMR 21V
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
The quest to understand the fundamental laws of nature has been ongoing for centuries. This seminar will assess the current status of this quest. In the first five weeks, we will cover the basic pillars of our understanding: Einstein's theory of general relativity, quantum mechanics and the Standard Model of particle physics. We will then examine the inadequacies and inconsistencies in our current picture, including, for example, the problem of quantum gravity, the lack of a unified theory of forces, Dirac's large numbers problem, the cosmological constant problem, Hawking's black hole information paradox, and the absence of a theory for the origin of the universe.
Attempts to address these issues and move beyond our current understanding involve a network of intertwined investigations in string theory, M theory, inflation, quantum information theory, general relativity and quantum field theory. They have drawn inspiration from the study and observation of black holes, gravitational waves and developments in modern mathematics. Recent progress is being accelerated by AI. These forays beyond the edge of our current knowledge will be reviewed and assessed.
NOTE: No prerequisites except curiosity, all majors welcome. The seminar is discussion oriented with occasional class dinners, guest speakers and movies.
Class Notes
First-Year Seminars are available only to first-year students. You may apply to both Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 First-Year Seminars via the FYS lottery between July 6 and August 6, 2026 at 11:59PM-midnight.
You may apply to as many seminars each term as you would like, but we recommend you apply to at least six in fall and three in spring.
As part of your application, you must provide a brief statement on why you are interested in each seminar. You will be notified of lottery results for both fall and spring seminars at 5 pm on August 11. If you are unsuccessful in the lottery, you may still join any seminar with open seats. A list of open seminars and instructions on next steps will be available on the First-Year Seminar Program website August 11 at 12 Noon.
Not Available for Cross Registration
