Probabilities: The Little Numbers That Rule Our Lives

摘要

This is a lovely book that should appeal to those with little familiarity with probability. On the other hand, there is likely much to be appreciated by many that are knowledgeable in probability.rnThe book discusses the major ideas in probability (and statistics). The notion of randomness is introduced, discrete probabilities are discussed, as are Bayes rule, the law of large numbers, and the central limit theorem. What is interesting is how these topics are motivated. Discussions consider blackjack and otherrngames of chance, probabilities used as evidence in court cases, and how opinion polls can go badly awry. Personalities that come up along the way range from Pafnuty Chebyshev to Marilyn vos Savant, from Carl-Friedrich Gauss to O.J. Simpson, and from Paul ErdSs to Jerry Seinfeld.rnThe writing throughout is educational while remaining entertaining. This book is a very enjoyable read for anyone who wants to obtain a better understanding of chance and the role it plays in our world.