# algebra

## Primary tabs

Defines:
subalgebra
Type of Math Object:
Definition
Major Section:
Reference
Groups audience:

## Mathematics Subject Classification

### for the people, by the people

While this entry may be technically correct, I still woulden't know what algebra was by reading it ;) May I suggest a short history of the invention of algebra, as well something to to tune of "a system to manipulate mathematical formulas"

### Re: for the people, by the people

yep.. we had a talk on this.
point is algebra has a very precise tehcnical meaning.

However.. being this one of the site values (user centred), feel free to add the entry "algebra" with "branch" type.

and also.. we're working on making a better browsable site
f
G -----> H G
p \ /_ ----- ~ f(G)
\ / f ker f
G/ker f

### Re: for the people, by the people

"topic" type, you mean =)
-apk

### algebra

In your definition of an algebra, there are many authors, who do not require that the ring has an identity at all. The Bourbaki school does, but as mentioned many mathematicians do not. The presence of an identity element helps, when maximal ideals (or one sided ideals are needed of course.)