F. M. Hall - Böcker

This two-volume course on abstract algebra provides a broad introduction to the subject for those with no previous knowledge of it but who are well grounded in ordinary algebraic techniques. It starts from the beginning, leading up to fresh ideas gradually and in a fairly elementary manner, and moving from discussion of particular (concrete) cases to abstract ideas and methods. It thus avoids the common practice of presenting the reader with a mass of ideas at the beginning, which he is only later able to relate to his previous mathematical experience. The work contains many concrete examples of algebraic structures. Each chapter contains a few worked examples for the student - these are divided into straightforward and more advanced categories. Answers are provided. From general sets, Volume 1 leads on to discuss special sets of the integers, other number sets, residues, polynomials and vectors. A chapter on mappings is followed by a detailed study of the fundamental laws of algebra, and an account of the theory of groups which takes the idea of subgroups as far as Langrange's theorem. Some improvements in exposition found desirable by users of the book have been incorporated into the second edition and the opportunity has also been taken to correct a number of errors.

The second volume continues the course of study started in Volume 1, but may be used independently by those already possessing an elementary knowledge of the subject. A summary of basic group theory is followed by accounts of group homomorphisms, rings, fields and integral domains. The related concepts of an invariant subgroup and an ideal in a ring are brought in and the reader introduced to vector spaces and Boolean algebra. The theorems behind the abstract work and the reasons for their importance are discussed in greater detail than is usual at this level. The book is intended both for those who, educated in traditional mathematics, wish to know something about modern algebra and also for those already familiar with the elements of the subject who wish to study further. Fresh ideas and structures are introduced gradually and in a simpler manner, with concrete examples and much more informal discussion. There are many graded exercises, including some worked examples. This book is thus suitable both for the student working by himself without the aid of the teacher and for those taking formal courses in universities or colleges of education.