On the action principle in quantum field theory

An analysis of the Schwinger's action principle in Lagrangian quantum field theory is presented. A solution of a problem contained in it is proposed via a suitable definition of a derivative with respect to operator variables. This results in a preservation of Euler-Lagrange equations and a change in the operator structure of conserved quantities. Besides, it entails certain relation between the field operators and their variations (which is identically valid for some fields, e.g. for the free ones). The general theory is illustrated on a number of particular examples