Mathematical elimination
In statistics, the terms "mathematical elimination" and "mathematically eliminated" mean to be excluded in a decision, based on numerical counts, due to insufficient total numbers, even if all remaining events were 100% in favor. The excluded outcome is considered to be eliminated due to the mathematical probability being zero (0%).
The term is used in elections when a candidate lacks sufficient votes to win, even if that candidate could garner all remaining votes. In sports, the term "mathematically eliminated" [1] refers to situations where there are not enough future games or competitive events remaining to be played to avoid defeat, even if all future events were won.
History
[edit]The term "mathematically eliminated" has been in use for more than 100 years,[2] although the meaning has varied. In a 1904 article, in the American Journal of Psychology, Volume XV, errors of measurement were described as quantifiable to be "mathematically eliminated" from the analysis of the remaining data.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ "Blunder Book: Gigantic", Goldberg Hirsch, M. H. Goldberg, p. 179, 1988, webpage: Books-Google-RgC-179.
- ^ a b "General Intelligence", Chapter 3, American Journal of Psychology, Volume XV, No. 1, January 1904, p. 226, webpage: Book-Google-AAJ.
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