On the Early History of Current Algebra

TL;DR

This paper reviews the development of Current Algebra up to the Adler-Weisberger sum rule, highlighting its impact on the historical debate between S-matrix and field theory approaches in strong interaction physics.

Contribution

It provides a historical analysis of Current Algebra's role in the evolution of strong interaction theories and the debate over fundamental particles versus bound states.

Findings

Current Algebra influenced the development of sum rules in particle physics.

It played a key role in the historical debate between S-matrix and field theory approaches.

The paper clarifies the significance of current algebra in the context of hadron structure.

Abstract

The history of Current Algebra is reviewed up to the appearance of the Adler-Weisberger sum rule. Particular emphasis is given to the role current algebra played for the historical struggle in strong interaction physics of elementary particles between the S-matrix approach based on dispersion relations and field theory. The question whether there are fundamental particles or all hadrons are bound or resonant states of one another played an important role in this struggle and is thus also regarded.