Handbook of Probability : Theory and Applications

While probability theory is the conceptual framework behind random sampling, modeling of measurement processes, and the analysis of stochastic modelsa??all well-known techniques to many researchers in the social sciencesa??probability theory is often considered difficult or unwieldy to apply effectively to real-world research questions. Of late, several surprisingly complex yet direct applications of probabilitistic arguments have emerged in the social sciences, including new theories of causality, agent-based simulation models, and forecasts based on probabilistic models. These and several other fields of research and their applications make probability theorya??both classical or fundamental proponents and cutting-edge developmentsa??a central part of the knowledge base for any social scientist. Providing cutting-edge perspectives and real-world insights into the greater utility of probability and its applications, the Handbook of Probability offers an equal balance of theory and direct applications in a non-technical, yet comprehensive, format. Editor Tam?!s Rudas and the internationally-known contributors present the material in a manner so that researchers of various backgrounds can use the reference either as a primer for understanding basic probability theory or as a more advanced research tool for specific projects requiring a deeper understanding. The wide-ranging applications of probability presented make it useful for scholars who need to make interdisciplinary connections in their work. Key Features Contains contributions from the international whoa??s-who of probability across several disciplines Offers an equal balance of theory and applications Explains the most important concepts of probability theory in a non-technical yet comprehensive way Provides in-depth examples of recent applications in the social and behavioral sciences as well as education, business, and law Intended Audience This Handbook makes an ideal library purchase. In addition, this volume should also be of interest to individual scholars in the social and behavioral sciences.