Softly higher-derivative massive gravity

In this work, we study the higher-derivative massive gravity in D-dimensional space-time with the mass term arisen due to a 2-brane embedded in a 4D Minkowski spacetime. We consider the effect of a resonance mass term from the DGP braneworld model for the higher-derivative massive gravity. Moreover, we add the gravitational Chern-Simons and Ricci-Cotton terms to this model and evaluate the graviton propagator using a basis of Barnes-Rivers spin projectors. Using the obtained propagator, we proceed with discussing the consistency of the model, writing the dispersion relations, and analyzing causality and unitarity.

Automated summary

In this study, the higher-derivative massive gravity in D-dimensional space-time is investigated. The mass term is introduced by a 2-brane embedded in a 4D Minkowski spacetime. The effect of a resonance mass term from the DGP braneworld model is considered. Additionally, the gravitational Chern-Simons and Ricci-Cotton terms are added to the model and the graviton propagator is evaluated using a basis of Barnes-Rivers spin projectors. The consistency of the model, dispersion relations, and causality and unitarity are discussed based on the obtained propagator.