An exceptionally accessible introduction to quantum field theory

Quantum field theory is by far the most spectacularly successful theory in physics, but also one of the most mystifying. Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible provides an essential primer on the subject, giving readers the conceptual foundations they need to wrap their heads around one of the most important yet baffling subjects in physics.

Quantum field theory grew out of quantum mechanics in the late 1930s and was developed by a generation of brilliant young theorists, including Julian Schwinger and Richard Feynman. Their predictions were experimentally verified to an astounding accuracy unmatched by the rest of physics. Quantum field theory unifies quantum mechanics and special relativity, thus providing the framework for understanding the quantum mysteries of the subatomic world. With his trademark blend of wit and physical insight, A. Zee guides readers from the classical notion of the field to the modern frontiers of quantum field theory, covering a host of topics along the way, including antimatter, Feynman diagrams, virtual particles, the path integral, quantum chromodynamics, electroweak unification, grand unification, and quantum gravity.

A unique and valuable introduction for students and general readers alike, Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible explains how quantum field theory informs our understanding of the universe, and how it can shed light on some of the deepest mysteries of physics.

Table of Contents

I. Our physical world

Preview of part I

1. Matter and the forces that move it

2. The rise of the classical field

3. Time unified with space

4. The geometry of spacetime

5. The rise and fall and rise of particles

Recap of part I

II. The road to quantum field theory

Preview of part 11

1. Getting the best deal: from least time to extremal action

2. Global versus local

3. Enter the quantum

Recap of part II

Ill. Becoming a quantum field t heorist

Preview of part 111

1. How to become a quantum field t heorist (almost) instantly

2. Origin of forces: range and exchange

3. Attraction or repulsion: a mysterious but all important sign

Recap of part Ill

IV. A universe of fields

Preview of part IV

1. Everybody is a field: Dirac set the electron free

2. Theoretical physics, like music, starts with harmony but then tries to move on

3. Quantum electrodynamics, perturbation theory, and cultural taboos

4. The road to gauge theory

Recap of part IV

A well-deserved rest

V. Quantum field theory and the four fundamental interactions

Preview of part V

1. Antimatter1

2. Too strong and too mean but ultimately free

3. The weak and the electroweak interactions

Addendum to chapter V.3

4. Grand unification

5. Gravity and curved spacetime

6. Quantum gravity: The Holy Grail of theoretical physics?

Recap of part V

VI. Quantum field theory is more intellectually complete than quantum mechanics

Preview of part VI

1. A question of identity

2. Exclusion, inclusion, and quantum statistics

3. Intellectual completeness

Recap of part VI

Review

"Quantum Field Theory, As Simply As Possible is delivered with humour and erudition by Anthony Zee. What better way to get the little grey cells going than by unifying quantum mechanics and special relativity?" ― New Scientist

"Certain to appeal to, instruct, and entertain at many levels"---J. F. Burkhart, Choice

“Zee has written an introduction to quantum field theory that should satisfy even the Goldilocks of science enthusiasts. It is not too simplistic to do the subject matter a disservice, yet not too complicated to be inaccessible to motivated beginners. Zee’s book contains an engaging mix of analogy, simple but accurate mathematics, and historical tidbits. It will be my new go-to recommendation when suggesting to enthusiastic newcomers how to start learning quantum field theory.”―Frank Petriello, Northwestern University and Argonne National Laboratory

“This is the opposite of a textbook. Rather than deriving the main results of quantum field theory, Zee discusses them conceptually, giving his own pointed opinions on the content and methods of this subject. If you are learning quantum field theory from the bottom up, equation by painful equation, Zee will encourage you to think critically and with a broader perspective.”―Michael E. Peskin, SLAC, Stanford University

“Quantum field theory is largely unknown to nonexperts, though it underlies vast swathes of modern physics. This book is a corrective to this extraordinary state of affairs.”―David Tong, University of Cambridge

“This is an adventurous book that offers unique insights and inspiration for science readers.”―John Donoghue, coauthor of A Prelude to Quantum Field Theory

“Using inimitable, lucid, and colloquial writing, Zee takes us across the whole landscape of high-energy physics. This excellent book will enlighten beginning physics undergraduates and informed lay readers alike.”―Keshav Dasgupta, McGill University

About the Author

A. Zee is professor of physics at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. His many books include Fly by Night Physics, On Gravity, Group Theory in a Nutshell for Physicists, Einstein Gravity in a Nutshell, Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell, and Fearful Symmetry (all Princeton).