The difference between Dirac's hole theory and quantum field theory

Abstract

Dirac's hole theory and quantum field theory are generally thought to be equivalent. In fact field theory can be derived from hole theory through the process of second quantization. However, it can be shown that problems worked in both theories yield different results. The reason for the difference between the two theories will be examined and the effect the this difference has on the way calculations are done in quantum theory will be examined.