Molecular Quantum Electrodynamics: Developments of Principle and Progress in Applications

Molecular quantum electrodynamics is a powerful and effective tool for the representation and elucidation of optical interactions with matter. Its history spans nearly a century of significant advances in its detailed theory and applications, and in its wider appreciation. To fully appreciate the development of the subject into its modern form invites a perspective on progressive technical progress in the theory, noting a growth in applications that closely mirrors advances in optical experimentation. The challenges and deficiencies of alternative approaches to theory are also taken into consideration.