| Abstract: |
We discuss the perturbative quantization of nonlinear sigma models using mathematically rigorous methods. In particular, by working with effective field theories in the context of the Batalin-Vilkovisky quantization procedure (following K. Costello), we analyze the cohomological problem involved in eliminating potential anomalies. We rederive results of Friedan concerning the absence of "coordinate anomalies" and discuss the renormalization of global symmetries arising from an isometric action of a Lie group when the target is a homogeneous space. Time permitting, we also discuss how the 1-loop RG flow reproduces the Ricci flow on the target. |
