p-form Puzzles - BF Theory and Electromagnetic Duality in Topological Field Theory

Explore fundamental puzzles in p-form field theories through this workshop lecture that examines the relationship between level k BF theory and homotopy sigma models. Delve into the commonly accepted equivalence between level k BF theory for a p-form and homotopy sigma models with target space K(A,p), where A represents a cyclic group of order k, while investigating aspects of this standard statement that present theoretical challenges. Examine electromagnetic duality in p-form electrodynamics and discover how a modified version of Ray-Singer torsion functions as the partition function of an invertible topological field theory. Engage with advanced concepts in quantum field theory, topological phases, and homotopy theory as presented by a leading expert in mathematical physics, offering insights into current research questions and potential resolutions to theoretical puzzles in the field.