Non-linear Lagrangians and Palatine's device

Abstract

ABSTRACTField equations in general relativity theory have sometimes been generated by subjecting, in an invariant action integral, the components of linear connexion and the components of a covariant tensor of valence 2 to independent variation. The conceptual objections to this process, and some of the manifold formal difficulties inherent in it, are discussed in some detail. At the same time certain results obtained elsewhere are strengthened and in part corrected.