Classical Covariant Fields

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to field theory, covering classical foundations, variational methods, and covariance. It explores the limits of classical approaches and their connection to second quantized field theory. It is an ideal supplementary text for courses on elementary field theory, group theory, and dynamical systems and is a valuable reference for researchers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This comprehensive 2002 book delves into the classical underpinnings of field theory, employing the language of variational methods and covariance. It explores the boundaries of what can be accomplished with purely classical concepts and demonstrates how these principles are intricately linked to the second quantized field theory, which builds upon the Schwinger Action Principle. The book adopts a pragmatic approach to field theory, emphasizing topics often overlooked in quantum field theory textbooks and documenting results that can be challenging to locate in the literature. Extensive care is taken to elucidate the origins and physical interpretations of the obtained results, making it an invaluable resource for graduate students embarking on their journey in the field. Additionally, it serves as an excellent supplementary text for courses covering elementary field theory, group theory, and dynamical systems. Furthermore, researchers working in these and related domains will find it a valuable reference. Notably, this book has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.

ISBN-13: 9781009289863