Squares & Sharps, Suckers & Sharks: The Science, Psychology & Philosophy of Gambling (Hardback)

Joseph Buchdahl (author)

£29.95

Hardback 352 Pages
Published: 25/05/2016

Synopsis

People have been gambling, in one form or another, for as long as history itself. Why? Money, entertainment, escape and a desire to win are all traditional explanations. Arguably, however, these are secondary considerations to a higher order purpose: a craving for control. Gambling offers a means of gaining authority over the unknown, granting us a sense of control over uncertainty. Almost always that sense is illusionary - gambling, including betting and investing, is essentially random - yet for many it is nonetheless profoundly rewarding. This book attempts to explore the reasons why.

Along the way, it examines:

The science of probability and uncertaintyWhy gambling is often condemnedThe difference between expectation and utilityThe irrationality of human beingsEvolutionary perspectives on gamblingLuck and skillMarket efficiency and the wisdom of crowdsWhy winners take allCheatingWhy the process matters more than the outcome

Publisher: Oldcastle Books Ltd
ISBN: 9781843448587
Number of pages: 352
Weight: 580 g
Dimensions: 234 x 153 x 33 mm

MEDIA REVIEWS

Squares & Sharps, Suckers & Sharks is a thoughtful book and a refreshing read -- James Butler * Betfair Pro Trader *
Joseph delivers on his promise to familiarise anybody with an interest in betting or investing with the workings of the betting mind through an abundance of practical examples -- Dafni Serdari * Pinnacle *