The Philosophical Foundations of Bayesianism

Name: The Philosophical Foundations of Bayesianism
Brand: ROUTLEDGE
Price: 544.75 AUD
Availability: PreOrder

An Opinionated Introduction

By: Kenny Easwaran

Write A Review

Hardcover | 4 May 2026 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Hardcover
250 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
22.9 x 15.2

Hardcover

$544.75

or 4 interest-free payments of $136.19 with

or

Available: 4th May 2026

Preorder. Will ship when available.

Bayesianism is the view that rational degrees of belief should follow probability theory. In this book, philosopher Kenny Easwaran defends Bayesianism as an effective normative framework when applied to all "doxastic subjects": humans, animals, artificial intelligences, groups, and even hypothetical aliens or angels.

The book addresses major challenges: concerns about numerical precision and computational tractability, problems with infinitesimals and regularity, difficulties with act-state dependence, and debates over evidence. Easwaran employs measurement theory to show probabilistic representation is analogous to representing temperature â" different scales (Fahrenheit/Celsius, probability/odds) can represent the same underlying non-numerical reality.

Later chapters examine how beliefs should update through conditionalization, while distinguishing different sources of rational norms. Easwaran defends a notably permissive view: any probability function is internally rational, as reason alone cannot dictate privileged priors. However, "ecological rationality" explains why certain belief systems perform better in specific environments, acknowledging both Bayesianism's abstract permissiveness and practical constraints making certain credal states more successful.

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $79.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.