Finite-Resolution Physics from Additivity Symmetry

Abstract

Quantum field theory unifies special relativity and quantum mechanics, yet relies on externally imposed prescriptions for quantization, renormalization, and probabilistic interpretation that lack a common algebraic foundation. This work derives these features from a single principle: the finite-resolution realization of the additive group (R, +) under four consistency constraints: finite operational resolution (FR1), multiplicative linearity (FR2), phase coherence (FR3), and statistical typicality (FR4). The Hilbert-space formalism of quantum theory, the Born probability rule, and the Kolmogorov structure of statistical mechanics emerge as limiting projections of a common additive algebra, without additional postulates. Extending this framework to spacetime translations and their automorphisms, we recover the kinematic and dynamical structure of quantum field theory and address ultraviolet divergences through intrinsic finiteness rather than external renormalization. Quantization and unitarity emerge from additive symmetry, while the gravitational field is interpreted as the algebraic kernel transporting boundary information into bulk observables, without requiring an independent quantization of the metric. This framework aims to provide a unified, finite, and algebraic foundation for physical law.nite, and algebraic foundation for physical law.