Abstract
Most scientists are deterministic in their outlook. They proceed on the assumption that events have causes, and are not spontaneous. Given full knowledge of the causes, all events supposedly are entirely predictable. However, owing to ignorance of the causes, which may be very complicated, scientists often find themselves unable to predict events with certainty. In place of a statement of certainty they generally can offer only a statement of probability.
Preview
Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Copyright information
© 1984 R. B. G. Williams
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Williams, R.B.G. (1984). Probability and Randomness. In: Introduction to Statistics for Geographers and Earth Scientists. Palgrave, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-06815-9_4
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-06815-9_4
Publisher Name: Palgrave, London
Print ISBN: 978-0-333-35275-5
Online ISBN: 978-1-349-06815-9
eBook Packages: Mathematics and StatisticsMathematics and Statistics (R0)