Abstract Algebra

Highly regarded by instructors in past editions for its sequencing of topics as well as its concrete approach, slightly slower beginning pace, and extensive set of exercises, the latest edition of Abstract Algebra extends the thrust of the widely used earlier editions as it introduces modern abstract concepts only after a careful study of important examples. Beachy and Blair’s clear narrative presentation responds to the needs of inexperienced students who stumble over proof writing, who understand definitions and theorems but cannot do the problems, and who want more examples that tie into their previous experience. The authors introduce chapters by indicating why the material is important and, at the same time, relating the new material to things from the student’s background and linking the subject matter of the chapter to the broader picture. Instructors will find the latest edition pitched at a suitable level of difficulty and will appreciate its gradual increase in the level of sophistication as the student progresses through the book. Rather than inserting superficial applications at the expense of important mathematical concepts, the Beachy and Blair solid, well-organized treatment motivates the subject with concrete problems from areas that students have previously encountered, namely, the integers and polynomials over the real numbers.