Relativistic Quantum Theory of Particles. II: A Non-Traditional Perspective on Space, Time, Particles, Fields, and Action-at-a-Distance

In this second volume of the series, we build an alternative version of quantum electrodynamics, which we call relativistic quantum dynamics (RQD). The key idea of RQD is to reinterpret quantum field theory in the language of physical "dressed" particles. We also modify formulas of special relativity by taking into account the boost dependence of interactions. By doing so, we arrive at a theory where charged particles interact via instantaneous action-at-a-distance forces, there is no need for renormalization, and the Minkowski space-time unification is an approximate concept. This theory describes electromagnetic phenomena, such as the Lamb shift and the Aharonov-Bohm effect, in terms of directly interacting charges, but in full accord with fundamental principles of relativity and causality. RQD finds its strongest experimental support in the recently discovered superluminal propagation of the Coulomb field associated with relativistic electron bunches.

Eugene Stefanovich received his PhD (Candidate of Science) degree in physics from the University of Latvia in 1991. He divides his time between software development in Silicon Valley and a quest for the ultimate laws of physics.