The BMHB Reviewed in Mathematical Reviews

The Big Monty Hall Book has now been reviewed in Mathematical Reviews. The reviewer is Paul Humphreys, a philosophy professor at the University of Virginia. Let's have a look:

Those intrigued by the original Monty Hall problem will find that this book is a superb source of variants of the problem, pays careful attention to the hidden assumptions behind the problems, and is written in a witty accessible style that never lapses into flippancy. The reader will find here discussions of the classical three-door problem and N-door variants, progressive versions, how to select the sample space, Bayesian treatments of the problems, computer simulations, quantum versions, information-theoretic representations, discussions of the interpretation of probabilities, common cognitive fallacies associated with the problem, and much more. This is a model of how to accessibly introduce mathematical material at an elementary level that is not a mere popularization of the material. A virtue of the book is that it goes beyond mere exposition to make some serious contributions to the discussion, including a proof that the strategy of switching at the last minute in the progressive version is uniquely optimal and a discussion of some philosophical treatments on the topic.

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And the final verdict:

The book contains a comprehensive bibliography on the subject, and is highly recommended for both mathematicians and students.

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Good to see the continuing positive reviews -- and this from a philosopher no less! And a philosopher who believes having mathematical proofs in there is worthwhile, lovely. A highly recommended is all one can ask from for a book. Now will the Sudoku book also be in a "witty accessible style"?

You're cute when you're happy...

LOL.. good for you.. best review ever..

Score!Score some more!

Ah, but what's behind door number three?

By Bayesian Bouff… (not verified) on 15 Dec 2010 #permalink