History of variational principles in physics involves integrals over an interval of time and (for fields) extended region of space. Moreover, in the usual formulation of classical action principles, the initial and final states of the system are fixed, e.g., In particular, the fixing of the "final" state appears to give the action principle a teleological character which has been controversial historically. This apparent teleology is eliminated in the quantum mechanical version of the action principle. History of variational principles in physics A variational principle in physics is an alternative method for determining the state or dynamics of a physical system, by identifying it as an
Mediterranean Institute of Fundamental Physics goal of MIFP is the creation of an environment for fruitful research activities, decreasing the amount of administrative and logistics problems for the members of the Institute, providing flexible management, promotion of fundamental physics in the Mediterranean region, sponsoring the collaboration projects in physics across Europe, although it stays open for any offers from all continents. MIFP promotes the high-school teaching programs in physics. The Institute organizes the International Conferences on Physics of Light-Matter Coupling in Nanostructures and International Schools on Nanophotonics and Photovoltaics. Members can request management assistance from MIFP for grant applications/organization of events or any other collaboration.