Abstract

Contemporary mathematics consists of many different branches and is intimately related to various other fields. Each of these branches and fields is growing rapidly and is itself diversifying. Fortunately, however, there is a considerable amount of common ground — similar ideas, concepts, and constructions. These provide a basis for a general theory of structures. The purpose of this book is to present the fundamental concepts and results of such a theory, expressed in the language of category theory — hence, as a particular branch of mathematics itself. It is designed to be used both as a textbook for beginners and as a reference source. Furthermore, it is aimed toward those interested in a general theory of structures, whether they be students or researchers, and also toward those interested in using such a general theory to help with organization and clarification within a special field. The only formal prerequisite for the reader is an elementary knowledge of set theory.

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