The Space of Holographic CFTs - Lecture 1

Explore the foundations of holographic conformal field theories (CFTs) in this comprehensive lecture series. Delve into the first installment of a five-part course that introduces CFTs and their data, large N conformal bootstrap, AdS/CFT correspondence, and the concept of "Holographic CFT." Gain insights into the modern perspective on large N conformal field theory across various spacetime dimensions, contextualized within the conformal bootstrap and AdS/CFT Correspondence frameworks. Investigate key questions surrounding holographic CFTs, including their emergence from gravity descriptions, the application of conformal bootstrap in constraining large N CFTs, the role of string theory, and the implications of quantum gravity on strongly coupled CFTs. This two-hour and fifteen-minute lecture serves as the cornerstone for understanding the intricate relationship between CFTs and holography, setting the stage for deeper explorations in subsequent sessions.