Carter presents the grojp theory portion of abstract algebra in a way that allows student to actually see, using a multitute of examples and applications, the basic concepts of group theory...The numerous images (more than 300) are the heart of the text. As this work enables readers to see, experiment with, and understand the significance of groups, they will accumulate examples of groups and their properties that will serve them well in future endeavors in mathematics. Recommended --J. T. Zerger, Choice
If you teach abstract algebra, then this book should be a part of the resources you use. While the phrase "visual abstract algebra" may seem to be a contradiction, the diagrams in this book are an existence proof to the contrary. They are clear, colorful and concise very easy to understand and sure to aid the students that have difficulty in internalizing the abstract nature of the subject matter. Especially appealing are the colorized tables of groups and their operations.
The approach is a very slow one in the sense that a foundation of common operations and rearrangements that are groups that are first examined with text and images. A large number of exercises are included at the end of each chapter and detailed solutions with colored images found in an appendix.
this book could also serve as a text in a first course in abstract algebra provided that the course is limited to groups only or you used supplementary material for rings and fields. If your course is restricted to groups only, then this is the best book available. --Charles Ashbacher, Journal of Recreational Mathematics
Book Description
This text approaches the learning of group theory visually. It allows the student to see groups, experiment with groups and understand their significance. It is ideal as a supplement for a first course in group theory or alternatively as recreational reading.
About the Author
Nathan Carter earned his PhD in mathematics at Indiana University in July 2004. He received the University of Scranton Excellence in Mathematics Award in 1999, an Indiana University Rothrock Teaching Award in 2003, and a Bentley College Innovation in Teaching Award in 2007. Visual Group Theory is his first book, based on lessons learned while writing the software Group Explorer. Like several of his research projects, it puts computers to work to improve mathematical understanding and education.