Constrained Symplectic Quantization: Disclosing the Deterministic Framework Behind Quantum Field Theory

Abstract: Symplectic quantization is a functional approach to quantum field theory that allows sampling of quantum fluctuations directly in Minkowski space time by means of a Hamiltonian dynamics in an intrinsic time $τ$ which samples a microcanonical ensemble, in close analogy with the standard microcanonical approach to lattice field theory. In this contribution we present constrained symplectic quantization for relativistic quantum field theory, generalizing from the quantum mechanical case. The method is based on the analytic continuation of fields and action from $\mathbb{R}$ to $\mathbb{C}$ and on constraints that select stable intrinsic time trajectories and that simultaneously define convergent integration cycles for the microcanonical partition function. In the continuum limit we recover the Feynman generating functional with the correct real time prescription. We test the construction for a free scalar field in $1+1$ dimensions on a periodic lattice by measuring real time two point functions and by verifying Dyson Schwinger identities with the correct contact term.