Theoretical Foundations of Cosmology Introduction to the Global Structure of Space-Time

The book's principal aim is to clarify fundamental concepts, decipher mathematical structures used to model space-time and relativistic worlds, and to disclose their physical meaning. After each chapter, philosophical implications of the presented material are commented upon. Both special and general theories of relativity are presented in the book with the stress on their global aspects. Although global mathematical methods are extensively used throughout the book, the definitions of new concepts, short comments and examples make reading smooth without the need to consult other textbooks or review papers. Contents:Manifold Model of Space-TimeRelativistic Model of Space-TimeMethod of Fibre BundlesThe Frame Bundle and General RelativityThe Cosmological ProblemGeometry of the Standard Cosmological ModelBibliographical EssayAppendix. Evolution of Dynamical Space-Time TheoriesReferencesSymbol IndexAuthor and Subject Index Readership: Cosmologists, astronomers and theoretical physicists. keywords:Cosmology;Universe;Standard Cosmological Model;Space-Time;General Relativity;Special Relativity;Geometry of Space-Time;Differential Geometry;Fibre Bundles;Methodological Questions of Cosmology;Philosophy of Cosmology