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Blaise Pascal: Probabilities
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Blaise Pascal (June 19, 1623 - August 19, 1662) was a French mathematician, physicist and religious philosopher. His contributions to the natural sciences include the construction of mechanical calculators, considerations on probability theory, studies of fluids, and clarification of concepts such as pressure and vacuum. Following a profound religious experience in 1654, Pascal abandoned mathematics and physics for philosophy and theology.
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The moment that new world was born arrived when seventeenth century French mathematicians Blaise Pascal and Pierre de Fermat formulated Pascal’s Triangle. This solution to an age-old mathematical problem of how to divide the stakes of an unfinished game of chance set out the laws of probability.
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Perhaps as a mathematician Pascal is best known in connection with his correspondence with Fermat in 1654 in which he laid down the principles of the theory of probabilities. This correspondence arose from a problem proposed by a gamester, the Chevalier de Méré, to Pascal, who communicated it to Fermat. The problem was this. Two players of equal skill want to leave the table before finishing their game. Their scores and the number of points which constitute the game being given, it is desired to find in what proportion they should divide the stakes. Pascal and Fermat agreed on the answer, but gave different proofs.
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At 19, Pascal invented and sold the first digital calculator. Called the Pascaline, it resembled a mechanical calculator of the 1940's. Further studies led to his invention of the barometer, syringe, and hydraulic press. With Fermat he laid the foundation for the theory of probability.
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Pascal ... distinguished himself in mathematics by inventing the theory of probabilities. This came about through a problem posed by Pascal's friend, the Chevalier de Mere, an inveterate gambler. The problem: two players must abort their game before it is finished, with one player ahead at the time. How, then, to divide the stakes? On the one hand, it would be unfair to divide them equally, because that does not give sufficient credit to the player who is ahead. On the other hand, it would also be unfair to give the entire pot to the player who is ahead at the time, because his ultimate victory is not certain.
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Blaise Pascal, one of the keenest intellects of the 17th century was a fervent believer in Jesus Christ. He is mainly known today for his scientific and mathematical discoveries (the theory of probabilities, the binomial theorem, the law of hydrostatics, and the invention of the first calculating machine).
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