Constructing TQFTs, HQFTs and ...?

Timothy Porter ( University of Wales, Bangor )

Starting with a brief recall of TQFTs, we will see how Yetter constructed a TQFT from a finite categorical group, and its links with `observations' of an evolving system.  Using simplicial techniques we will show a possible link with more general monoidal categories. Shifting attention to the coefficients, we will look at Turaev's HQFTs in a simple case. Finally, if time permits, we will (very briefly and probably superficially) examine the possible implications of similar technology for the study of evolving spaces, evolving systems, and evolving multi-modal logics.