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Arts & Culture

NOVA: Prediction By The Numbers

By Jennifer Robinson / Web Producer
Published February 27, 2018 at 9:50 AM PST
Author and mathematician Keith Devlin discusses probability theory, which arose from games of chance like flipping coins and throwing dice.
Courtesy of Cara Feinberg
Author and mathematician Keith Devlin discusses probability theory, which arose from games of chance like flipping coins and throwing dice.

Stream now or tune in Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 at 9 p.m. on KPBS TV + Sunday, Jan. 10 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2

Stream now with KPBS Passport!

Can we forecast the future? Discover how predictions underpin nearly every aspect of our lives and why some succeed spectacularly while others fail.

Predictions underlie nearly every aspect of our lives, from sports, politics, and medical decisions to the morning commute. With the explosion of digital technology, the internet, and “big data,” the science of forecasting is flourishing.

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As general manager (and now Executive VP) Billy Beane looked to mathematics and statistics to mold the Oakland A's into one of the most respected teams in baseball. He was featured in Michael Lewis' Book "Moneyball," which was made into a feature film starring Brad Pitt.
Courtesy of Cara Feinberg
As general manager (and now Executive VP) Billy Beane looked to mathematics and statistics to mold the Oakland A's into one of the most respected teams in baseball. He was featured in Michael Lewis' Book "Moneyball," which was made into a feature film starring Brad Pitt.

But why do some predictions succeed spectacularly while others fail abysmally? And how can we find meaningful patterns amidst chaos and uncertainty?

Explore entertaining real-world challenges, and join experts as they tackle that age-old question on "Prediction By The Numbers."

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The full episode is available to stream on demand with KPBS Passport, video streaming for members at $60 or more yearly, using your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire or Chromecast. Learn how to activate your benefit now.

Statistican Talithia Williams demonstrates the power of the Wisdom of Crows…with jelly beans.
Courtesy of Cara Feinberg
Statistican Talithia Williams demonstrates the power of the Wisdom of Crows…with jelly beans.

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Google X and Udacity Founder Sebastian Thrun, talks about his algorithm that can detect skin cancer.
Courtesy of Cara Feinberg
Google X and Udacity Founder Sebastian Thrun, talks about his algorithm that can detect skin cancer.

Credits:

A NOVA production for WGBH Boston. Senior Executive Producer for NOVA is Paula S. Apsell.

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Jennifer Robinson
Jen is a web producer at KPBS, responsible for program promotion, online membership-related activities, and is the editor of the KPBS community calendar. Jen has worked at KPBS since 2000. She is originally from Las Vegas and attended UNLV.
See stories by Jennifer Robinson
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