Bayes' theorem |
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Definition
Relates the probability of the occurrence of an event to the occurrence or non-occurrence of an associated event. For example, the probability of drawing an ace from a pack of cards is 0.077 (4 ÷ 52). If two cards are drawn at random, the probability of the second card being an ace depends on whether the first card is an ace or not: if it is, then the probability of the second card being an ace is 0.058 (3 ÷ 52); if not, the probability remains 0.077. Bayes' theorem provides a mathematical rule for revising an estimate or forecast in light of experience and observation. It differs from other methods of hypothesis testing in that it assigns 'after the fact' (posterior) probabilities to the hypotheses instead of just accepting or rejecting them. Named after its proponent, the UK mathematician Thomas Bayes (1702-1761) who researched probability and statistical inference.
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Bayes' theorem is in the Quality Control & Management and Statistics, Mathematics, & Analysis subjects.
Bayes' theorem appears in the definitions of the following terms: Bayesian analysis, Bayesian statistics and Bayesian probability
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