This text is a concise, self-contained introduction to abstract algebra which stresses its unifying role in geometry and number theory. There is a strong emphasis on historical motivation - both to trace abstract concepts to their concrete roots, but also to show the power of new ideas to solve old problems. This approach shows algebra as an integral part of mathematics and makes this text more informative to both beginners and experts than others. Classical results of geometry and number theory (such as straightedge-and-compass construction and its relation to Fermat primes) are used to motivate and illustrate algebraic techniques, and classical algebra itself (solutions of cubic and quartic equations) is used to motivate the problem of solvability by radicals and its solution via Galois theory. Modern methods are used whenever they are clearer or more efficient, but technical machinery is introduced only when needed.
- ISBN10 147573977X
- ISBN13 9781475739770
- Publish Date 15 January 2014 (first published September 1994)
- Publish Status Withdrawn
- Out of Print 18 October 2014
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Springer
- Format Paperback (US Trade)
- Pages 196
- Language English