An introduction to symplectic topology

Abstract

Symplectic structures underlie the equations of classical mechanics and their properties are reflected in the behavior of a wide range of physical systems. Over the last few years powerful new methods in analysis and topology have led to the development of the modern global theory of symplectic topology, including several striking and important results. At its publication in 1995, Introduction to Symplectic Topology was the first comprehensive introduction to the subject and it has since become an established text in this fast-developing branch of mathematics. This second edition has been significantly revised and expanded, with new references and additional examples and theorems. It includes a section on new developments and an expanded discussion of Taubes and Donaldson's recent results.