The Mathematics of Games
An Introduction to Probability
Preview
Book Description
The Mathematics of Games: An Introduction to Probability takes an inquiry-based approach to teaching the standard material for an introductory probability course. It also discusses different games and ideas that relate to the law of large numbers, as well as some more mathematical topics not typically found in similar books.
Written in an accessible, student-friendly style, the book uses questions about various games (not just casino games) to motivate the mathematics. The author explains the examples in detail and offers ample exercises for students to practice their skills. Both "mini-excursions" appearing at the end of each chapter and the appendices delve further into interesting topics, including the St. Petersburg paradox, binomial and normal distributions, Fibonacci numbers, and the traveling salesman problem.
By exploring games of chance, this text gives students a greater understanding of probability. It helps them develop the intuition necessary to make better, more informed decisions in strategic situations involving risk. It also prepares them to study the world of statistics.
Table of Contents
Dice, Coins, and Candy
Introduction
Probability
Candy (Yum)!
Wheels and More Dice
Roulette
Craps
Counting the Pokers
Cards and Counting
Seven Card Pokers
Texas Hold'Em
Bluffing
Windmills and Black Jacks?
Blackjack
Blackjack Variants
More Fun Dice!
Liar's Dice
Yahtzee
Zombie Dice
Board Games, Not "Bored" Games
Board Game Movement
Pay Day (The Board Game)
Monopoly
Spread, Revisited
Can You Bet and Win?
Betting Systems
Gambler’s Ruin
There Are More Games!
The Lottery
Bingo
Baccarat
Farkle
Backgammon
Memory
Appendices
A Probabilities with Infinity
B St. Petersburg Paradox
C Prisoner’s Dilemma and More Game Theory
D Binomial Distribution versus Normal Distribution
E Matrix Multiplication Review
F Minimizing the Probability of Ruin
Tables
Answers and Selected Solutions
Bibliography
Index
Exercises and Mini-Excursions appear at the end of each chapter.
Author(s)
Biography
Dr. David G. Taylor is an associate professor and chair of the Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics (MCSP) Department at Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia.