Theory of Operator Algebras I: Originally Published As a Monograph: 124 (Encyclopaedia of Mathematical Sciences) - Hardcover

"... These three bulky volumes [EMS 124, 125, 127], written by one of the most prominent researchers of the area, provide an introduction to this repidly developing theory. ... These books can be warmly recommended to every graduate student who wants to become acquainted with this exciting branch of matematics. Furthermore, they should be on the bookshelf of every researcher of the area." (László Kérchy, Acta Scientiarum Mathematicarum, Vol. 69, 2003)

Since its inception by von Neumann 70 years ago, the theory of operator algebras has become a rapidly developing area of importance for the understanding of many areas of mathematics and theoretical physics. Accessible to the non-specialist, this first part of a three-volume treatise provides a clear, carefully written survey that emphasizes the theory's analytical and topological aspects.