Approaches to the analysis of relativistic superdense matter

Recent discoveries in astrophysics and in elementary particle theory have indicated the need for relativistic models of superdense matter. Computational schemes based on relativistic quantum field theory developed to meet these needs are discussed. An analysis of problems which arise at different levels of approximation is given, and methods are outlined for their solution. Finally, a consistent approximation scheme suited to relativistic systems is presented, and its justification discussed. Model neutron star calculations based on this scheme which have already been published are in excellent agreement with observational data on pulsars and compact x-ray sources