A Mathematical Theory of Evidence
About this book
Both in science and in practical affairs we reason by combining facts only inconclusively supported by evidence. Building on an abstract understanding of this process of combination, this book constructs a new theory of epistemic probability. The theory draws on the work of A. P. Dempster but diverges from Depster's viewpoint by identifying his "lower probabilities" as epistemic probabilities and taking his rule for combining "upper and lower probabilities" as fundamental.
The book opens with a critique of the well-known Bayesian theory of epistemic probability. It then proceeds to develop an alternative to the additive set functions and the rule of conditioning of the Bayesian theory: set functions that need only be what Choquet called "monotone of order of infinity." and Dempster's rule for combining such set functions. This rule, together with the idea of "weights of evidence," leads to both an extensive new theory and a better understanding of the Bayesian theory. The book concludes with a brief treatment of statistical inference and a discussion of the limitations of epistemic probability. Appendices contain mathematical proofs, which are relatively elementary and seldom depend on mathematics more advanced that the binomial theorem.
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Cover Page
- Half-title Page
- Title Page
- Copyright Page
- Dedication Page
- Contents
- Foreword
- Preface
- Chapter 1. Introduction
- Chapter 2. Degrees Of Belief
- Chapter 3. Dempster's Rule Of Combination
- Chapter 4. Simple And Separable Support Functions
- Chapter 5. The Weights Of Evidence
- Chapter 6. Compatible Frames Of Discernment
- Chapter 7. Support Functions
- Chapter 8. The Discernment Of Evidence
- Chapter 9. Quasi Support Functions
- Chapter 10. Consonance
- Chapter 11. Statistical Evidence
- Chapter 12. The Dual Nature Of Probable Reasoning
- Bibliography
- Index
