Mathematics and "The Trouble with Physics", How Deep We Have to Go?

Abstract

The parts contributed by the author in recent discussions with several physicists and mathematicians are reviewed, as they have been occasioned by the 2006 book "The Trouble with Physics", of Lee Smolin. Some of the issues addressed are the possible and not yet sufficiently explored relationship between modern Mathematics and theoretical Physics, as well as the way physicists may benefit from becoming more aware of what at present appear to be certain less than fortunate yet essential differences between modern Mathematics and theoretical Physics, as far as the significant freedom of introducing new fundamental concepts, structures and theories in the former is concerned. A number of modern mathematical concepts and structures are suggested for consideration by physicists, when dealing with foundational issues in present day theoretical Physics. Since here discussions with several persons are reviewed, certain issues may be brought up more than one time. For such repetitions the author ask for the kind understanding of the reader.