Background Independent Theories

Background independent theories are approaches in physics that describe the universe without relying on a fixed, predefined spacetime structure. Instead, space and time emerge from the interactions of more fundamental entities, making the fabric of the universe dynamic and relational. This contrasts with traditional theories, like Newton’s or Einstein’s general relativity, which assume a fixed background spacetime. Background independence aims to unify quantum mechanics and gravity, providing a more complete understanding of the universe at its most fundamental level by allowing the geometry of spacetime itself to be shaped by the entities within it.