This book is based on lectures by six internationally known experts
presented at the 2002 MSRI introductory workshop on commutative
algebra. They focus on the interaction of commutative algebra with
other areas of mathematics, including algebraic geometry, group
cohomology and representation theory, and combinatorics, with all
necessary background provided. Short complementary papers describing
work at the research frontier are also included. The unusual scope and
format make the book invaluable reading for graduate students and
researchers interested in commutative algebra and its various uses.
