Harmonic Analysis on Finite Groups: Representation Theory, Gelfand Pairs and Markov Chains

Starting from a few concrete problems such as random walks on the discrete circle and the finite ultrametric space, this book develops the necessary tools for the asymptotic analysis of these processes. Its topics range from the basic theory needed for students new to this area, to advanced topics such as the theory of Green's algebras, the complete analysis of the random matchings, and a presentation of the presentation theory of the symmetric group. This self-contained, detailed study culminates with case-by-case analyses of the cut-off phenomenon discovered by Persi Diaconis.