A ‘black hole theorem,’ and its implications

A general formulation of the basic conflict information problem is given, encapsulated in a "black hole theorem." This framed more context than usual one quantum field theory on background, and based describing black as subsystem larger system, including its environment. sharpens limited set possible consistent options; with Coleman-Mandula theorem, most important point probably loophole "theorem," what this tells us about fundamental structure gravity. "theorem" particular involves question how to define subsystems If holes do behave subsystems, at least good approximation, evolve unitarily, not leave remnants, implies presence interactions between environment that go beyond description local fields. provides further motivation for connects previous work giving principled parameterization these interactions, investigating their observational signatures via electromagnetic or gravitational wave observations holes.