Thanks, but is this another textbook that requires knowledge in abstract algebra prior to reading it, or make any sort of previous knowledge assumptions?
Having attempted to get through it myself(and having a math degree), I would strongly recommend against Algebra: Chapter 0 as an introductory text on either category theory or abstract algebra.
If you either already have a math degree, or if you're already at the point where you're ready to take an upper-level undergraduate math course, then it may be a decent book for you. Maybe. For example, if you're:
- already very comfortable with linear algebra
- possibly been exposed to a bit of topology in analysis class
- already been exposed to abstract algebra a bit by a more theoretical approach to linear algebra (comfortable with proving things in linear algebra via vector spaces and fields)
Otherwise, I would absolutely steer clear of it. The writing style is also not terribly beginner-friendly, in my opinion.
The closest book I can think of to what you're asking for would be "Conceptual Mathematics: A First Introduction to Categories". Though obviously I don't know whether it's a good fit for your particular background and learning style.
I think the first chapter definitely has no prerequisites (it introduces sets and categories), but it's also a core mathematics textbook intended for upper-level undergraduate and early graduate students in pure mathematics. So it re-teaches all of abstract algebra, and quite a bit beyond, using category theory as a unifying principle. It's a book intended to give you a mature perspective and prime you for research.
