New Setting for Spontaneous Gauge Symmetry Breaking?

TL;DR

This paper discusses the ongoing interest in scalar-tensor theories of gravity, originally proposed by Carl Brans, despite limited experimental support, highlighting their theoretical significance and recent research developments.

Contribution

It provides an overview of the historical context and current motivations for studying scalar-tensor gravity models, emphasizing their relevance in modern theoretical physics.

Findings

Scalar-tensor models remain theoretically compelling.

Recent research continues to explore their implications.

Experimental support for these models remains limited.

Abstract

Over half century ago Carl Brans participated in the construction of a viable deformation of the Einstein gravity theory. Their suggestion involves expanding the tensor-based theory by a scalar field. But experimental support has not materialized. Nevertheless the model continues to generate interest and new research. The reasons for the current activity is described in this essay, which is dedicated to Carl Brans on his eightieth birthday.