Luck Theory A Philosophical Introduction to the Mathematics of Luck

This book is an original—the first-ever treatment of the mathematics of Luck. Setting out from the principle that luck can be measured by the gap between reasonable expectation and eventual realization, the book develops step-by-step a mathematical theory that accommodates the entire range of our pre-systematic understanding of the way in which luck functions in human affairs. In so moving from explanatory exposition to mathematical treatment, the book provides a clear and accessible account of the way in which luck assessment enters into the calculations of rational decision theory.

1. Chancy Outcome Situation.- 2. Outcome Luck Assessment and the Luck Equation.- 3. Variant Approaches to Luck.- 4. Some Illustrative Examples.- 5. Luck in Success/Failure Situations.- 6. Basic Luck Theorems.- 7. Luck and Risk.- 8. Managing Luck.