Scientific Reasoning: The Bayesian Approach

✍ Scribed by Colin Howson, Peter Urbach

• Publisher: Open Court
• Year: 2006
• Tongue: English
• Leaves: 340
• Edition: 3rd
• Category: Library

✦ Synopsis

In this clearly reasoned defense of Bayes's Theorem — that probability can be used to reasonably justify scientific theories — Colin Howson and Peter Urbach examine the way in which scientists appeal to probability arguments, and demonstrate that the classical approach to statistical inference is full of flaws. Arguing the case for the Bayesian method with little more than basic algebra, the authors show that it avoids the difficulties of the classical system. The book also refutes the major criticisms leveled against Bayesian logic, especially that it is too subjective. This newly updated edition of this classic textbook is also suitable for college courses.

✦ Table of Contents

Contents......Page 4
Preface to the Third Edition......Page 10
CHAPTER 1 Preface to the Third Edition
......Page 14
CHAPTER 2 The Probability Calculus
......Page 26
CHAPTER 3 The Laws of Probability
......Page 58
CHAPTER 4 Bayesian Induction: Deterministic Theories
......Page 104
CHAPTER 5 Classical Inference: Significance Tests and Estimation
......Page 144
CHAPTER 6 Statistical Inference in Practice: Clinical Trials
......Page 196
CHAPTER 7 Regression Analysis
......Page 218
CHAPTER 8 Bayesian Induction: Statistical Theories
......Page 250
CHAPTER 9 Finale: Some General Issues
......Page 278
Bibliography......Page 316
Index......Page 332