Algebras of Linear Transformations (Universitext)

The aim of this book is twofold: (i) to give an exposition of the basic theory of finite-dimensional algebras at a levelthat isappropriate for senior undergraduate and first-year graduate students, and (ii) to provide the mathematical foundation needed to prepare the reader for the advanced study of anyone of several fields of mathematics. The subject under study is by no means new-indeed it is classical­ yet a book that offers a straightforward and concrete treatment of this theory seems justified for several reasons. First, algebras and linear trans­ formations in one guise or another are standard features of various parts of modern mathematics. These include well-entrenched fields such as repre­ sentation theory, as well as newer ones such as quantum groups. Second, a study ofthe elementary theory offinite-dimensional algebras is particularly useful in motivating and casting light upon more sophisticated topics such as module theory and operator algebras. Indeed, the reader who acquires a good understanding of the basic theory of algebras is wellpositioned to ap­ preciate results in operator algebras, representation theory, and ring theory. In return for their efforts, readers are rewarded by the results themselves, several of which are fundamental theorems of striking elegance. "This book is concerned with the study of algebras of linear transformations acting on finite-dimensional vector spaces, which in one guise or another arise in various parts of modern mathematics. The book's aims are the following: (i) to give an exposition of the basic theory of finite-dimensional algebras at a level that is appropriate for senior undergraduate and first-year graduate students, and (ii) to provide the mathematical foundation that prepares the reader for the advanced study of any one of several fields of mathematics. The most important features of the book are the novelty of the selection of topics and the level of accessibility in which these topics are treated. The book features a relatively new approach to finite-dimensional operator algebras that is based on algebraic rather than functional-analytic methods. The reader who acquires a good understanding of the basic theory of algebras is well positioned to appreciate results in operator algebras, representation theory, linear algebra, and ring theory."--BOOK JACKET.

This book studies algebras and linear transformations acting on finite -dimensional vector spaces over arbitrary fields. It is written for students who have prior knowledge of algebra and linear algebra. The goal is to present a balance of theory and example in order for students to gain a firm understanding of the basic theory of finite- dimensional algebras and to provide a foundation for subsequent advanced study in a number of areas of mathematics. As such, the level of exposition is suitable for senior undergraduate students.

This book studies algebras and linear transformations acting on finite-dimensional vector spaces over arbitrary fields. It is written for readers who have prior knowledge of algebra and linear algebra. The goal is to present a balance of theory and example in order for readers to gain a firm understanding of the basic theory of finite-dimensional algebras and to provide a foundation for subsequent advanced study in a number of areas of mathematics. Vector spaces are ubiquitous in mathematics, for they are nothing more than convenient structures within which one can make meaningful statements about a variety of phenomena, both physical and mathematical.