This book is an original-the first-ever treatment of the mathematics of Luck. Setting out from the principle that luck can be measured by the gap between reasonable expectation and eventual realization, the book develops step-by-step a mathematical theory that accommodates the entire range of our pre-systematic understanding of the way in which luck functions in human affairs. In so moving from explanatory exposition to mathematical treatment, the book provides a clear and accessible account of the way in which luck assessment enters into the calculations of rational decision theory.

Autorentext
Nicholas Rescher: Distinguished University Professor of Philosophy; Former President: American Philosophical Association, American Catholic Philosophical Association, American Philosophical Society. Member American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Royal Society of Canada; Academie Europaea; Cardinal Mercier Medalist; Aquinas Medalist; Helmholtz Medalist of the German Academy of Sciences (Berlin-Brandenburg).

Klappentext
This book is an originalthe first-ever treatment of the mathematics of Luck. Setting out from the principle that luck can be measured by the gap between reasonable expectation and eventual realization, the book develops step-by-step a mathematical theory that accommodates the entire range of our pre-systematic understanding of the way in which luck functions in human affairs. In so moving from explanatory exposition to mathematical treatment, the book provides a clear and accessible account of the way in which luck assessment enters into the calculations of rational decision theory.

Inhalt

1. Chancy Outcome from Uncertain Outcomes.- 2. Outcome Luck Assessment.- 3. Some Illustrative Examples.- 4. Win/Lose Situations and Luck in Searching.- 5. Basic Luck Theorems.- 6. Luck and Risk.- 7. Managing Luck.- Appendix: Assessing Various Critiques.