Available for the first time in paperback, The Quantum Theory of Fields is a self-contained, comprehensive, and up-to-date introduction to quantum field theory from Nobel Laureate Steven Weinberg. Volume I introduces the foundations of quantum field theory. The development is fresh and logical throughout, with each step carefully motivated by what has gone before. After a brief historical outline, the book begins with the principles of relativity and quantum mechanics, and the properties of particles that follow. Quantum field theory emerges from this as a natural consequence. The classic calculations of quantum electrodynamics are presented in a thoroughly modern way, showing the use of path integrals and dimensional regularization. It contains much original material, and is peppered with examples and insights drawn from the author's experience as a leader of elementary particle research. Exercises are included at the end of each chapter.

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Historical introduction; 2. Relativistic quantum mechanics; 3. Scattering theory; 4. The cluster decomposition principle; 5. Quantum fields and antiparticles; 6. The Feynman rules; 7. The canonical formalism; 8. Massless particles: electrodynamics; 9. Path integral methods; 10. Nonperturbative methods; 11. One-loop radiative corrections in quantum electrodynamics; 12. General renormalization theory; 13. Infrared effects; 14. Bound states in external fields; Subject index; Author index.