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Topics in Algebra
New edition includes extensive revisions of the material on finite groups and Galois Theory. New problems added throughout.
388 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1964
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
January 24, 2009
Truth be told, I always considered myself more of an analysis guy than an algebraist in college. So why is it that, of the various texts I had as an undergraduate, this is one of the handful I've never managed to get rid of?
Because group theory rocks, in its own buttoned-down, hidden-depths, body-of-an-accountant-soul-of-a-poet fashion. Herstein's slightly desiccated prose is oddly appropriate for its subject matter, though it's hard to love. You have to read between the lines to discover the underlying beauty.
Compared with Ian Stewart's terrific "Galois Theory", Herstein doesn't do particularly well. But then again, Stewart is an impossible act to follow.
Because group theory rocks, in its own buttoned-down, hidden-depths, body-of-an-accountant-soul-of-a-poet fashion. Herstein's slightly desiccated prose is oddly appropriate for its subject matter, though it's hard to love. You have to read between the lines to discover the underlying beauty.
Compared with Ian Stewart's terrific "Galois Theory", Herstein doesn't do particularly well. But then again, Stewart is an impossible act to follow.
August 29, 2008
One of my math professors gave this book to me when I was in school. I've been thinking about going back and getting my Masters in math. I just wanted to see how much I remembered or could comprehend. I got through five pages in one lunch hour. But I understood it! This one will be on the "Currently Reading" shelf for a while. . .
May 30, 2008
One of the great classics in mathematics literature. Herstein's mathematical writing is some of the best, at times a pleasure to read.
I recommend this book, especially for self study or a supplement to an algebra course. This book is worth a skim even for its historical value as an example of who to construct a mathematical text.
That being said, a would be user should be warned of a few of the books quirks. First the book is old, and a bit antiquated. Second, this book was not actually designed for a graduate-level course, but instead based on and advanced undergraduate curriculum. So, the material falls short of a standard (North American) graduate course in algebra.
Enjoy.
I recommend this book, especially for self study or a supplement to an algebra course. This book is worth a skim even for its historical value as an example of who to construct a mathematical text.
That being said, a would be user should be warned of a few of the books quirks. First the book is old, and a bit antiquated. Second, this book was not actually designed for a graduate-level course, but instead based on and advanced undergraduate curriculum. So, the material falls short of a standard (North American) graduate course in algebra.
Enjoy.
January 22, 2014
Fantastic book on algebraic structures. Made me love the subject.
June 27, 2008
I learned "algebra is hard" and "shopping (for math books)
is expensive".
is expensive".
March 24, 2014
Best book for a undergraduate course in algebra.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews