On Facts in Superstring Theory. A Case Study: The AdS/CFT Correspondence

TL;DR

This paper critically examines the evidential basis of superstring theory, focusing on the AdS/CFT correspondence, and argues that acceptance of facts involves social factors beyond purely theoretical reasoning.

Contribution

It provides a philosophical analysis of how facts are established in superstring theory, emphasizing the role of community and consensus in addition to theoretical evidence.

Findings

Superstring theory lacks experimental confirmation.

Acceptance of facts is influenced by social and community factors.

The AdS/CFT correspondence exemplifies the complex nature of theoretical 'facts'.

Abstract

Despite the lack of experimental confirmation and of unambiguous theoretical proof, superstring theory has long been considered by many the only consistent quantized theory of gravity and the unique viable framework for the unification of all fundamental forces of nature. In the first part of this essay I explore the type of reasoning used to support such statements. In order to illustrate the argument, in the second part I focus on one of the most acclaimed achievements of the theory: the AdS/CFT correspondence. Finally, I conclude by observing that what constitutes a result in superstring theory involves more than purely theoretical arguments. Specifically, the acceptance of facts in superstring theory is inextricably linked to the large group of people that make it possible, whether they are string practitioners or not.