Probability Demystified

by Allan G. Bluman

Many people do not understand the basic concepts of probability, as evidenced by the proliferation of those participating in lotteries, horse racing, and gambling at casinos. But probability and statistics are becoming increasingly important in today’s society. As the basic ideas are being taught in elementary schools through college, it’s important that everyone has a basic understanding of probability theory. Probability theory explains the happenings that occur due to chance. Although it is not possible to predict for certain the individual outcome of a chance process, it is possible to determine outcomes in the “long run,” and to predict the probability that something will eventually occur. This book will present the basics of probability in a non-rigorous manner. Only an understanding of arithmetic and some basic algebra are necessary to learn these ideas. No high-powered mathematical notation or formal proofs will be used, rather the concepts will be developed from examples using coins, dice, cards, and other common probability devices.

Genres: Mathematics, Nonfiction, Reference

258 pages, Paperback

First published January 27, 2005

Reviews

[Walter Ullon · Rating 4 out of 5]

So here's a book that's perfect for anyone wanting to get a taste for probability theory without getting into the nitty-gritty of it. The material is introduced in a way that won't overwhelm the reader, eventually ramping up in difficulty in the later chapters. Those seeking for rigor, however, would be best advised to seek somewhere else. Expect to start with straightforward "classical" probability, and finish up with the more esoteric "Bayes Theorem". All of it awesome.

I can honestly say I've had hours of fun going through the exercises, as I had no idea about how much probability theory really encompassed; game theory, statistics, and actuarial science all make much more sense to me now.

I guess that the real value of this book lies in the fact that it can successfully teach its readers how to abstract frequencies, values, strategies, and distributions, in a way that takes the "scary" out of it and allows one to study the underlying principles in a fun and approachable way.

[Alejandro Jaramillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers a nice first introduction to the most basic ideas on probability with clear explanations and examples.

[Cogito_ergo_sum · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was a pretty good "introductory course" to statistics. It didn't teach me what I needed to know to pass my stats course (not even close!), but it did a good job of introducing the basics in a simple language. That way, when I go to read my stats textbook (statistics for engineering and sciences), I'm not so lost and confused.

I recommend this book to anyone who hasn't taken statistics before, and will take it. It is very easy to read, and will make your transition into statistics easier.