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.