Black Hole Thermodynamics from Euclidean Horizon Constraints

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that horizon constraints in quantum gravity enable the use of conformal field theory to derive black hole entropy, supporting the universality of the Bekenstein-Hawking formula.

Contribution

It introduces a horizon constraint framework that reproduces black hole entropy using conformal field theory techniques, suggesting a universal mechanism.

Findings

Reproduces Bekenstein-Hawking entropy using conformal field theory.

Shows standard string theory entropy as a special case.

Identifies Goldstone-boson-like excitations as relevant degrees of freedom.

Abstract

To explain black hole thermodynamics in quantum gravity, one must introduce constraints to ensure that a black hole is actually present. I show that for a large class of black holes, such ``horizon constraints'' allow the use of conformal field theory techniques to compute the density of states, reproducing the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy in a nearly model-independent manner. One standard string theory approach to black hole entropy arises as a special case, lending support to the claim that the mechanism may be ``universal.'' I argue that the relevant degrees of freedom are Goldstone-boson-like excitations arising from the weak breaking of symmetry by the constraints.