Computer Simulations of Causal Sets

Abstract: This review introduces Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulations in causal set theory, with a focus on the study of the 2d orders. It will first introduce the Benincasa-Dowker action on causal sets, and cover some musings on the philosophy of computer simulations. And then proceed to review results from the study of the 2d orders, first their general phase transition and scaling behavior and then results on defining a wave function of the universe using these orders and on coupling the 2d orders to an Ising like model. Including matter in this type shows a strong coupling between matter and geometry, that leads to new phase transitions. However, while the matter does induce a new phase transition, it does not change the order of the phase transition of geometry.