Quintessence and the Swampland: The Parametrically Controlled Regime of Moduli Space

We provide evidence that slow roll is not possible in any parametrically controlled regime of the moduli space of string theory. This is proven in full generality in the asymptotic limit of the moduli space of type II and heterotic Calabi-Yau compactifications for the dilaton and any number of Kahler moduli. Our results suggest that in order to build quintessence into string theory one must work in the interior of moduli space where numerical, even if not parametric, control could still be achieved.

Automated summary

This article provides evidence that slow roll is not possible in any parametrically controlled regime of the moduli space in string theory. Our results suggest that in order to incorporate quintessence into string theory, it is necessary to work in the interior of the moduli space where numerical control can still be achieved, even if not parametric control.