Trouble with the Strings

You may feel well with the critics of string theory - the undertaking to unify quantum physics with general relativity: After more than 25 years the output is poor. Yes, there's fascinating mathematical concepts behind it. But what is testable? Where are the experimental clues that all around us is in eleven dimensions -- as fundamental understanding of string theory? A book by New York physicist Peter Woit speaks for itself "Not even Wrong -- The Failure of String Theory and the Continuing Challenge to Unify the Laws of Physics." Enough provocation to ignite a heavy debate. For the scientific establishment -- and string theorists see themselves as the true successors of Einstein, in relevance and image -- Woit is now treated like an outlaw. But Dietmar Dath writes in his report for FAZ (31.7.2006) that Woit's arguments hit the weak point in string theory but also discusses alternatives. The book is concise, exciting and gives a fair overview, writes Dath. He puts it further. Although string theory is in the eyes of many physicists some kind of holy grail, the scientific process itself benefits from questioning seemingly established trails.