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Quantum field theory for the gifted amateur. (English) Zbl 1286.81003

Oxford: Oxford University Press (ISBN 978-0-19-969932-2/hbk; 978-0-19-969933-9/pbk). 512 p. (2014).
Publisher’s description: Quantum field theory is arguably the most far-reaching and beautiful physical theory ever constructed, with aspects more stringently tested and verified to greater precision than any other theory in physics. Unfortunately, the subject has gained a notorious reputation for difficulty, with forbidding looking mathematics and a peculiar diagrammatic language described in an array of unforgiving, weighty textbooks aimed firmly at aspiring professionals. However, quantum field theory is too important, too beautiful, and too engaging to be restricted to the professionals. This book on quantum field theory is designed to be different. It is written by experimental physicists and aims to provide the interested amateur with a bridge from undergraduate physics to quantum field theory. The imagined reader is a gifted amateur, possessing a curious and adaptable mind, looking to be told an entertaining and intellectually stimulating story, but who will not feel patronised if a few mathematical niceties are spelled out in detail. Using numerous worked examples, diagrams, and careful physically motivated explanations, this book will smooth the path towards understanding the radically different and revolutionary view of the physical world that quantum field theory provides, and which all physicists should have the opportunity to experience.

MSC:

81-01 Introductory exposition (textbooks, tutorial papers, etc.) pertaining to quantum theory
81T99 Quantum field theory; related classical field theories
81V25 Other elementary particle theory in quantum theory
82C10 Quantum dynamics and nonequilibrium statistical mechanics (general)
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