Conformal invariance and scalar-tensor theories

A new generalization of Einstein's theory is proposed which is invariant under conformal mappings. Two scalar are introduced in addition to the metric tensor field, so that two special choices of gauge are available for physical interpretation, the 'Einstein gauge' and the 'atomic gauge'. The theory is not unique but contains two adjustable parameters zeta and alpha. With alpha = 1 the theory viewed from the atomic gauge is Brans-Dicke theory (omega = -3/2 + zeta/4). Any other choice of alpha leads to a creation-field theory. In particular the theory given by the choice alpha = -3 possesses a cosmological solution satisfying Dirac's 'large numbers' hypothesis.