Quantum field theory is the theory of many-particle quantum systems. Just as quantum mechanics describes a single particle as both a particle and a wave, quantum field theory describes many-particle systems in terms of both particles and fields. Traditionally, quantum field theory was used in particle physics and other areas of physics to calculate properties of particles, however the study of phase transitions has become a unifying theme across most areas of physics.

This book is the first of a two-volume set, based on courses taught by Professor Michael Ogilvie for many years at Washington University, St. Louis. The books will cover quantum field theory at an introductory level appropriate for graduate students in physics, taking them in two semesters to the point where they can begin research in fields using quantum field theory, such as particle physics, nuclear physics, cosmology and astrophysics and condensed matter physics.

The topics introduced in this volume include free (noninteracting) fields, field quantization, interacting fields, Feynman diagrams, scattering, cross sections and decay rates; renormalization; symmetry, symmetry breaking and Goldstone bosons.

The key audience for this book includes graduate students studying particle physics and condensed matter. It also includes researchers interested in quantum field theory.