Quantum Theory, Gravity and Higher Order Geometry

Abstract

The fact that quantum theory is non-differentiable, while general relativity is built on the assumption of differentiability sources an incompatibility between quantum theory and gravity. Higher order geometry addresses this issue directly by extending differential geometry, such that it can be applied to theories that are non-differentiable, but have a certain degree of H\"older regularity. As this includes the path integral formulation of quantum theory, it provides a natural mathematical framework for describing the interplay between gravity and quantum theory. In this article, we review the motivation for and the basic features of this framework and point towards future developments.