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Re:SICP - summary of 10 months working through the entire book by mattrepl on Friday April 18, 2008 @02:09PM (#167481)
Thanks for mentioning the text you're using. I'm looking for a resource beyond Wikipedia for abstract algebra and Dummit and Foote looks good, but I'm worried that the lack of solutions makes it inappropriate for self-study.

Anyone know of an abstract algebra text that is well-suited for an autodidactic mathematician with a basic understanding of the subject?

Re:SICP - summary of 10 months working through the entire book by ashu on Friday April 18, 2008 @04:36PM (#167629)
I loved "A First Course in Abstract Algebra" by Fraleigh. It was a while ago, so I don't quite remember whether it had solutions for the exercises or not.

[edit]: There's also Michael Artin's "Algebra" which is somewhat dense (certainly without solutions), but a very fascinating read due to its emphasis on symmetry groups. Particularly useful and enlightening in the context of modern particle physics.

Re:SICP - summary of 10 months working through the entire book by benmathes on Friday April 18, 2008 @11:18PM (#167827)
Fraleigh contains solutions to the odd numbered sections (7th edition). It was the text I used (and enjoyed). I still have a copy of it, three years later.
Re:SICP - summary of 10 months working through the entire book by cia_plant on Friday April 18, 2008 @02:54PM (#167537)
When I was first trying to teach myself abstract algebra, Herstein's book seemed the most user-friendly. It doesn't go very far, but it's very clear and well-written. No solutions I'm afraid - but that's not common with any mathematics textbooks.