Definition:Inverse Probability

Definition

Inverse probability is a concept used in Bayesian inference for applying an approach to probability theory where reasoning is applied to observations so as to develop hypotheses that may explain them.

More generally, the term is used for an attempt to find the probability of an occurrence of a cause event conditional upon a consequential event having occurred.

Examples

Disease

Finding the probability that a person has a particular disease, given that they have tested positive for it, is an exercise in inverse probability.

This may be solved using Bayes' Theorem if other relevant information is available.

Also see

• Results about inverse probability can be found here.

Sources

• 2008: David Nelson: The Penguin Dictionary of Mathematics (4th ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): inverse probability