Question

I am studying Chern-Simons theories and am fairly familiar with the usual Abelian U(1)

Chern-Simons theory. I am now looking to extend my knowledge to non-Abelian Chern-Simons and am having a hard time finding quality references, lecture notes, that discuss the quantisation of the level k
, the Wilson lines, etc for this case. Does anyone know of some useful sources to consult?
Options:

A) Quantum Field Theory and the Jones Polynomial by Edward Witten
B) Non-Abelian Gauge Theories by Marcos Mariño
C) Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell by A. Zee
D) An Introduction to Quantum Field Theory by Michael E. Peskin and Daniel V. Schroeder

Answer 1

For a deeper understanding of non-Abelian Chern-Simons theories, Edward Witten's and Marcos Mariño's works are recommended. It's also beneficial to have knowledge of the Standard Model and quantum chromodynamics to comprehend the context of such advanced theories.

Step-by-step explanation:

For students studying non-Abelian Chern-Simons theories and seeking to understand concepts like the quantization of the level k and Wilson lines, there are several quality references you can consult:

• Quantum Field Theory and the Jones Polynomial by Edward Witten, where Witten pioneered the use of Chern-Simons theory to link quantum field theory and knot theory, providing a computation mechanism for the Jones polynomial.
• Non-Abelian Gauge Theories by Marcos Mariño, which is a good resource to understand the broader implications and applications of gauge theories, including non-Abelian Chern-Simons theory.
• While the books Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell by A. Zee and An Introduction to Quantum Field Theory by Michael E. Peskin and Daniel V. Schroeder are comprehensive texts on quantum field theory, they may offer only limited specific detail on non-Abelian Chern-Simons theories.

It is also helpful to have a strong understanding of the Standard Model, a combination of quantum chromodynamics and electroweak theory. Knowing about superstring theory and concepts related to synchrotron radiation and theory of quark confinement can provide a deeper context for the nature of forces and particles when delving into advanced theories like Chern-Simons.