Description
Book SynopsisThis book is meant to be a primer, that is an introduction, to probability logic, a subject that appears to be in its infancy. Probability logic is a subject envisioned by Hans Reichenbach and largely created by Adams. It treats conditionals as bearers of conditional probabilities and discusses an appropriate sense of validity for arguments such conditionals, as well as ordinary statements as premises. This is a clear well written text on the subject of probability logic, suitable for advanced undergraduates or graduates, but also of interest to professional philosophers. There are well thought out exercises, and a number of advanced topics treated in appendices, while some are brought up in exercises and some are alluded to only in footnotes. By this means it is hoped that the reader will at least be made aware of most of the important ramifications of the subject and its tie-ins with current research, and will have some indications concerning recent and relevant literature.
Table of Contents1. Introduction to probability logic; 2. Probability and logic; 3. Deduction and probability; Part I. Statics: 4. Conditional probability and conditionalisation; 5. Probability and deduction; Part II. Dynamics: 6. Probability conditionals: Basics; 7. Formal theory: Derivations and related matters; 8. Truth, triviality, and controversy; 9. Practical reason; 10. The pragmatics of probability; Appendices; Answers to exercises.
