Algebraic Topology and Distributed Computing

From: Michael N. Christoff (mchristoff_at_sympatico.caREMOVETHIS)
Date: 12/13/03 

Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2003 14:01:56 -0500

Algebraic toplogy (AT herein) seems to be a good way of formalizing
protocols in distributed systems (DS herein) (such as decision problems like
'consensus'). I am interested in learning more, however AT is a huge field
and I am only interested in learning the parts directly related to
distributed computing. Can anyone suggest a book, that a) assumes no
knowledge of algebraic toplogy b) assumes no more than undergraduate level
math - ie: calculus, linear algebra, basic geometry, ability to do proofs,
etc... c) focused on showing how AT can be utilized to solve DS problems and
does not get into non-DS related aspects of AT (unless they are required
background for understanding DS related AT topics).

I have found many introductions on the net, but they seem to assume at least
basic knowledge of topology, homotopy, and other topics I am not familiar
with, so I think a full book dedicated to the subject sounds more feasible
as a basis for learning AT for DS. But any links or online books you may
know of will be of great help as well.

l8r, Mike N. Christoff