Search of unified theory of basic types of elementary particle interactions

Four types of forces are described (strong, weak, electromagnetic and gravitational) mediating the basic interactions of quarks and leptons, and attempts are reported of forming a unified theory of all basic interactions. The concepts are discussed, such as the theory symmetry (eg., invariance in relation to the Lorentz transformations) and isotopic symmetry (based on the interchangeability of particles in a given isotopic multiplet). Described are the gauge character of electromagnetic and gravitational interactions, the violation of the gauge symmetry and the mechanism of particle confinement. (H.S.)