A fixed point theorem for \(L ^{1}\) spaces (Q443970)

An \(L\)-embedded Banach space \(X\) admits, by definition, an \(\ell_1\)-direct decomposition of the bidual space \(X^{**}= X \oplus_1 X_s\). Applying the Ryll-Nardzewski fixed point theorem, the authors prove the following result: Let \(X\) be an \(L\)-embedded Banach space and \(A\subset X\) be a bounded subset. Then there is a point in \(X\) fixed by every affine isometric mapping that preserves \(A\). Moreover, one can find such a fixed point that minimises \(\sup\{\|x-a\|: a\in A\}\) over all \(x\in X\). Applying this innocent looking theorem to \(X=L_1(G)\) the authors essentially deduce in just a few lines the solution of the derivation problem for group algebras, originally due to \textit{V.~Losert} [``The derivation problem for group algebras'', Ann.\ Math. (2) 168, No.~1, 221--246 (2008; Zbl 1171.43003)]. They also produce, by applying their theorem to the predual of a von Neumann algebra, a new proof of the fact that all \(C^*\)-algebras are weakly amenable, originally due to \textit{U.~Haagerup} [``All nuclear \(C*\)-algebras are amenable'', Invent.\ Math.\ 74, 305--319 (1983; Zbl 0529.46041)]. Further, a new characterisation of Kazhdan groups is presented.