Re: Galois Theory ok, weird lie from sci.math

From: Randy Poe (poespam-trap_at_yahoo.com)
Date: 10/14/04 

Date: 14 Oct 2004 11:07:14 -0700

jstevh@msn.com (James Harris) wrote in message news:<3c65f87.0410140222.254aba77@posting.google.com>...
> Will Twentyman <wtwentyman@read.my.sig> wrote in message news:<416dc276$1_3@newsfeed.slurp.net>...
> > James Harris wrote:
> > > So now abstract algebra is supposedly different from algebra?
> >
> > Yes. Abstract algebra focuses on the properties of the set and
> > operation(s) as a whole. Standard algebra is focused on manipulations
> > of elements/variables within the set. The result is a completely
> > different focus, and a corresponding different emphasis. The
> > manipulations you do are generally not that important in abstract
> > algebra. They are "trivial computations" that have little to do with
> > properties of the structure as a whole. As an excercise sometime, try
> > comparing a college algebra text with an abstract algebra text. Focus
> > just on how they discuss polynomials and rational expressions.
>
> But is abstract algebra still algebra?

No. The skills and concepts taught in high-school algebra
are taken for granted in abstract algebra. Abstract algebra
courses are teaching different things.

> I think your reply shows what I face and can help people appreciate
> why I talk about people not being mathematicians not out of meanness
> but stating the obvious as well as expressing my frustation.

That people keep defining terms for you when you don't
know their meaning?

> Now notice, other readers, what the poster does with my simple
> question.

Answers it. The horror, the horror.

           - Randy

Relevant Pages

  • Re: Galois Theory ok, weird lie from sci.math
    ... Standard algebra is focused on manipulations ... >> comparing a college algebra text with an abstract algebra text. ... > why I talk about people not being mathematicians not out of meanness ... > Now notice, other readers, what the poster does with my simple ...
    (sci.math)
  • Re: Galois Theory ok, weird lie from sci.math
    ... Standard algebra is focused on manipulations ... >>comparing a college algebra text with an abstract algebra text. ... Standard algebra is limited to manipulations involving integer, ... impression I got when you offered that annecdote about your childhood ...
    (sci.math)