Luck Theory: A Philosophical Introduction to the Mathematics of Luck

by Nicholas Rescher

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783030637828
Publisher:	Springer International Publishing
Publication date:	01/23/2021
Series:	Logic, Argumentation & Reasoning , #20
Edition description:	1st ed. 2021
Pages:	90
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

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).

Table of Contents

1. Chancy Outcome Situation.- 2. Outcome Luck Assessment and the Luck Equation.- 3. Variant Approaches to Luck.- 4. Some Illustrative Examples.- 5. Luck in Success/Failure Situations.- 6. Basic Luck Theorems.- 7. Luck and Risk.- 8. Managing Luck.