Philosophy 148

The sun has risen every day in the past. Will it rise tomorrow? A gambler just lost ten bets in a roll. Should they be more confident that they will win the next one? How should we make predictions and generalizations based on data collected in the past? Probability theory is a powerful tool for studying such questions. This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts of probability and inductive logic. We will examine their philosophical foundations and also apply the formal apparatus to philosophical problems such as the problem of induction and theory confirmation.

Recommend prerequisites: PHIL 12A (not required)

As taught this semester, Phil 148, can satisfy group A of the Epistemology/Metaphysics requirement.