Remark. Fixed connections and dynamical fields [fdip-006K]

A connection in this chapter is fixed background data. Gauge transformations compare its descriptions; taking their quotient does not prescribe a probability law on connections. The holonomy action integrates matter while retaining the connection as a parameter. To make the connection dynamical one must also specify its integration measure and action, and then integrate or sum over connection configurations.

The earlier induced action on weighted graphs likewise keeps the weights fixed. One could subsequently promote them to integration variables, but that is an additional model choice. Neither the fixed-weight action nor the present connection construction makes weights dynamical or supplies gravitational dynamics. A prescribed circle limit and a twisted spatial Dirac operator also do not supply a time direction, reflection positivity or Lorentzian reconstruction. These distinctions remain part of the open physical interfaces.