The observer’s ghost: notes on a field space connection

Abstract

We introduce a functional covariant differential as a tool for studying field space geometry in a manifestly covariant way. We then touch upon its role in gauge theories and general relativity over bounded regions, and in BRST symmetry. Due to the Gribov problem, we argue that our formalism — allowing for a non-vanishing functional curvature — is necessary for a global treatment of gauge-invariance in field space. We conclude by suggesting that the structures we introduce satisfactorily implement the notion of a (non-asymptotic) observer in gauge theories and general relativity.