Abstract Algebra [Hardcover]

John A. Beachy (Author), William D. Blair (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1995

This volume offers a gentle introduction to proof in a concrete setting, the introduction of abstract concepts only after a careful study of important examples, and the gradual increase of the level of sophistication as one progresses through the book. It offers an extensive set of exercises that help to build proof writing skills. In addition, chapter introductions give motivation and historical context while tying the subject matter in with the broader picture.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

Consider these titles of related interest also available from Waveland Press: Hillman-Alexanderson, Abstract Algebra: A First Undergraduate Course, Fifth Edition (ISBN 157766082X) and Saracino, Abstract Algebra: A First Course (ISBN 0881336653).

From the Back Cover

"The book has a great selection of exercises. There are enough good ones to make it possible to use the book several semesters in a row without repeating too much. They come in a nice mix from easy computations to warm the students up to more difficult theoretical problems. A few have solutions, but most don't. I like this balance very much." -- Will Murray, California State University, Long Beach

"I like the gradual introduction to abstraction by starting with examples rather than abstract groups or rings. Many nice examples, as well as good theorems often omitted from undergraduate courses." -- William M. McGovern, University of Washington

"A well-written text with plenty of opportunity for students to get involved in the learning process." -- Francis T. Hannick, Minnesota State University, Mankato

"This book moves from concreteness to abstraction more skillfully than any text I have ever seen. A completely convincing and student-oriented presentation of the `why' of abstract algebra as well as the `how.'" -- Vic Camillo, University of Iowa --This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 427 pages
• Publisher: Waveland Pr Inc; 2 Sub edition (November 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0881338664
• ISBN-13: 978-0881338669
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.6 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,322,027 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

26 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Carefully develops proof writing skills, December 23, 2000

By 

Bruce Atwood (Rockford, IL USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Abstract Algebra (Hardcover)

This excellent book was my textbook for 2 semesters of senior level abstract algebra. The unique feature of this book is that elementary number theory, equivalence relations, and permutations are carefully introduced at the beginning. Other books launch right into groups and then have to make long digressions to cover these topics. Comparing this book to the best-selling Contemporary Abstract Algebra by Joseph Gallian, I like that Gallian's book adds many applications which students will find interesting. However, Beachy and Blair's book puts a greater emphasis on developing student's ability to do proofs. The book also incorporates more number theory than many other texts. Answers to selected problems are included, so I recommend this book for self study as well as a textbook for any undergraduate abstract algebra course.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Buy this book!!, January 28, 2004

By 

G. D. Roche "Excel fanatic" (Massachusetts) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Abstract Algebra (Hardcover)

Not only is the best book I have seen on Abstract Algebra, this is the best mathematics book I own. I have used it as a suppliment while studying, in research, and in teaching. It is clear and readable. The authors also have a wonderful web site with scores of resources on the subject.

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A very nice, detailed exposition to Abstract Algebra, February 10, 2006

By 

From Detroit (Michigan, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Abstract Algebra (Hardcover)

This is the best introductory text I've read. I like it much better than Durbin. The author takes a lot of time explaining proofs in the beginning. Over time, they leave more to the reader. The exercises are bountiful, and I often find a few interesting ones in each section. I highly recommend this text to anyone interested in higher mathematics. It's very thorough, yet very readable.