Chern-Simons theory on an arbitrary manifold via surgery

Abstract: A general formula for physical observables in Chern-Simons theory with an arbitrary compact Lie group

G

, on an arbitrary closed oriented three-dimensional manifold

c M

is derived in terms of vacuum expectation values of Wilson loops in

{c a l S}^{3}

. Surgery presentation of

c M

and the Kirby moves are implemented as the main ingredients of the approach. The case of

G = m S U (n)

is explicitly calculated.

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