Algebra I: A Basic Course in Abstract Algebra

Preface

There are two schools of thought: one, a particular topic be chosen and taught at an advanced level; the other, topics be chosen and first taught at the introductory level and then at the advanced level. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. In the first case, study becomes very focused and a significant level of the course can be achieved. But at the same time it leaves inter-related topics introduced together. Even the choice of examples becomes very limited. Thus, for the first timers a course on algebra requires to go through several books. Connecting topics becomes a difficult task. Different assumptions and notations too pose a big problem.

In the second approach, however, related topics are studied simultaneously. They ...