Is this correct : fair game ?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the probability of winning in a game between two opponents, A and B. The probability of each player winning is represented by p and q, and it is assumed that p+q<1. If A begins, the probability of A winning is calculated as p/(p+q-pq), while the probability of B winning is calculated as (1-p)q/(p+q-pq). However, if p+q=1, then the golden ratio is obtained as a fair game. The concept of Markov chains is mentioned as a way to explain the dependence of winning events on previous rounds. The conversation concludes with an example involving coin tossing and dice rolling to illustrate the concept of continuous winning.
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kleinwolf
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Is this correct : fair game

Let suppose there are 2 opponents : A,B...for simplicity, Let suppose at each round A wins with prob. p, B with q...and p and q, constant such that 0<p+q<1...

Then if A begins, p(A wins)=[tex] p+(1-p)(1-q)p+...\frac{p}{p+q-pq}[/tex]...which is A wins at first, A loses, B loses, A wins, aso...

where as :

p(B wins)=[tex] (1-p)q+(1-p)(1-q)(1-p)q+...\frac{(1-p)q}{p+q-pq}[/tex]...:
..

Hence,p(A=win)+p(B=win)=1 even if p+q<1...However if A,B have at each round the same prob. of winning, then on summing rounds, the ones who begins has more chance to win ? (but still we remember, those are juste probabilities...)

However p(A=win)=p(B=win) (fair) => q=p/(1-p)...let suppose the game is a every round winner type one with p+q=1...this means, at each round, either A or B wins (there are no open rounds)..then the golden ratio is obtained as fair for the whole game, but of course not the single round...

if the game is a each round winner type, then it should be like counting the numbers of time who is the winner, since one of them surely wins.

But if p+q<1 what is the context of the probability computation : based on : the first who wins, wins all...or even if he wins once, we continue, and count only determined issues (not open ones..)..p+q<1 could be determined by factors like : each round takes such time, if over, nobody won... ?


rachmaninoff Anyways, your model is not good. Are the events "A wins" and "B wins" independent? They shouldn't be. What does it mean to say "A and B both win" (with probability p*q)? It's not meaningful.

The general answer to your question is: Markov chains. It's too lengthy to explain here, so I suggest you look it up somewhere (assuming you're already good with linear algebra).

well, it was not question of A and B both wins, because by construction, if A wins, then B loses, hence P(A and B wins)=0..if...but there can be that neiter A nor B wins, hence [tex]P(A and B lose)=p_{open}[/tex] ..but this does not mean that p(a and b win)<>0 which would mean not independent...what you mean is I suppose if the previous round influences the next one (if it is boxing, it is obvious...): p(A=winner(n+1)¦A=winner(n))...but here it's taken as independent...

But I was in fact not speaking about theory, but on the basics : you say ok we make a faire game with a coin..it's fair ?? Yes, but if we repeat the coin tossing, it's not anymore...so is it fair or not ?
 
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When you write "A wins" you mean "A wins at least once," correct? Suppose A and B are rolling a die. A wins if 4 is rolled, B wins if 3 is rolled. But both lose if neither 3 nor 4 is rolled. So A can keep on winning round after round if there is a continuous run of 4's. I suggest you explain this using a concrete example.
 
  • #3


Yes, in theory, a coin toss is a fair game. But as you mentioned, when we repeat the tossing, it's no longer fair because the outcome of the previous toss can influence the next one. This is where the concept of Markov chains comes in. It takes into account the previous outcomes and calculates the probability of the next outcome based on those. So in your example, the fairness of the game would depend on the specific conditions and factors involved, such as the independence of the events and the influence of previous rounds. It's not a simple yes or no answer, but rather a complex mathematical concept.
 

1. What does "fair game" mean?

"Fair game" is a term that is commonly used in sports and games to refer to a situation where all players have an equal chance of winning. It can also be used to describe a situation that is considered acceptable or appropriate.

2. Is it correct to use "fair game" in everyday conversation?

Yes, "fair game" is a common phrase that can be used in both formal and informal situations. It is often used to express that something is allowed or acceptable.

3. Can "fair game" have a negative connotation?

Yes, "fair game" can be used to describe a situation where someone is being treated unfairly or is being targeted for criticism or ridicule. In this context, it has a negative connotation.

4. How is "fair game" related to ethics and morality?

"Fair game" is often used in discussions about ethics and morality to refer to a situation where everyone is held to the same standards and has an equal chance of success. It can also be used to describe a situation that is considered morally acceptable.

5. Are there any alternative phrases to "fair game"?

Yes, there are several alternative phrases that can be used to convey a similar meaning to "fair game." These include "fair play," "equal opportunity," and "level playing field."

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