Just as ordinary symmetries relate various forms of matter to each
other, and various basic forces to each other, so the novel concept of
supersymmetry relates (Fermi) matter to (Bose) force. It is the aim of
this book to provide a brief introductory description of the new
physical and mathematical ideas involved in formulating supersymmetric
theories. The book starts with a physical motivation of supersymmetry, a
presentation of the mathematics of Lie superalgebras, supergroups and
superspace. Techniques for constructing manifestly globally
supersymmetric field theories are given, using the superfield formalism.
To allow for a clear flow of ideas, the basic ideas and techniques are
worked out in low space dimensionalities where the formulae do not
obscure the concepts. Generalizations to four space-time dimensions are
then readily come by. Some quantum aspects are discussed. Possible
phenomenological applications are not emphasized. Supergravities,
locally supersymmetric theories are then considered in 4 and 11
dimensions, in component formalism. An introduction to supersymmetry
will be of interest to postgraduate students and researchers in
theoretical and particle physics, especially those working in quantum
field theory, quantum gravity, general relativity and supergravity. The
book will also be of interest to mathematicians with an interest in
theoretical physics.