At the present time, the average undergraduate mathematics major finds mathematics heavily compartmentalized. After the calculus, he takes a course in analysis and a course in algebra. Depending upon his interests (or those of his department), he takes courses in special topics. Ifhe is exposed to topology, it is usually straightforward point set topology; if he is exposed to geom- etry, it is usually classical differential geometry. The exciting revelations that there is some unity in mathematics, that fields overlap, that techniques of one field have applications in another, are denied the...

This volume attests to the vitality of differential geometry as it probes deeper into its internal structure and explores ever widening connections with other subjects in mathematics and physics. To most of us Professor S. S. Chern is modern differential geometry, and we, his students, are grateful to him for leading us to this fertile landscape. The aims of the symposium were to review recent developments in geometry and to expose and explore new areas of research. It was our way of honoring Professor Chern upon the occasion of his official retirement as Professor of Mathematics at the...