Exploring noncommutative algebras via deformation theory

Abstract

This is the text of the lecture given by the author in Naples at "Giornata IndAM", June 7, 2005. The lecture is addressed at the general mathematical audience and reviews several topics in deformation theory of associative algebras.

12 pages, latex; lecture given by the author at "Giornata IndAM, Naples, June 7, 2005