Logic of Statistical Inference

by Ian Hacking

Overview

This book is a philosophical study of the basic principles of statistical reasoning. Professor Hacking has sought to discover the simple principles which underlie modern work in mathematical statistics and to test them, both at a philosophical level and in terms of their practical consequences fort statisticians. The ideas of modern logic are used to analyse these principles, and results are presented without the use of unfamiliar symbolism. It begins with a philosophical analysis of a few central concepts and then, using an elementary system of logic, develops most of the standard statistical theory. the analysis provides answers to many disputed questions about how to test statistical hypotheses and about how to estimate quantities in the light of statistical data. One product of the analysis is a sound and consistent rationale for R. A. Fisher's controversial concept of 'fiducial probability'.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521290593
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	03/25/1976
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	244
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.40(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Ian Hacking is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at the University of Toronto. He has published extensively on logic, philosophy of science, philosophy of maths and metaphysics. His most recent publications include Why Is There Philosophy of Mathematics At All? (Cambridge, 2014), Scientific Reason (2009) and Exercises in Analysis (Cambridge, 2009).

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Long run frequencies; 2. The chance set-up; 3. Support; 4. The long run; 5. The law of likelihood; 6. Statistical tests; 7. Theories of testing; 8. Random sampling; 9. The fiducial argument; 10. Estimation; 11. Point estimation; 12. Bayes' theory; 13. The subjective theory.