Gaussian approximation of the (2+1)-dimensional Thirring model in the functional Schrödinger picture.

The (2+1)-dimensional Thirring model is studied by using the Gaussian approximation method in the functional Schroedinger picture. Although dynamical symmetry breaking does not occur in the large-[ital N] limit, it does occur in the Gaussian approximation which includes the higher order contributions in 1/[ital N].