The Grand Rapids Community College Mathematics Department is pleased to announce that it will host its last Mathematics Seminar of 2018-2019 on Wednesday, April 17, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in 102 Cook.
Our speaker, GRCC student Luke Ellison, will be discussing Bayes’ Theorem.
Bayes’ Theorem actually is a theorem –it has a precise mathematical formulation that can be rigorously demonstrated– but its use has been controversial for more than 200 years. Luke’s presentation will emphasize historical background and applications, and thus will be accessible to a general audience. As is the case with all of our seminars, everyone is welcome!
Details:
- DATE: Wednesday, April 17
- TIME: 3:30-4:30 p.m. (Refreshments served at 2:14 p.m.)
- PLACE: 102 Cook
- SUBJECT: Bayes’ Theorem: Using Probability Theory to Quantify Uncertainty
Bayes’ theorem is a probabilistic equation that allows us to update our prior beliefs in the face of new evidence. This talk will explore the historical development and application of Bayes’ theorem including unique problems that it has helped solve. Specific areas of application include World War 2 codebreaking, authorship of the Federalist papers, and quantifying degrees of certainty in historical claims.