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What is Subjective Probability?

M. McGee
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 63,691
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Subjective probability is a measurement of a likely outcome determined by an individual’s personal viewpoint. Unlike most forms of probability, which are based on mathematics, subjective probability has little to no actual mathematical data involved in its outcome. The most important factor in this form of probability is the viewpoint of the individual making the decision. This is often a first or final step in determining an unpredictable outcome and is a common means of assessing group mentality or making decisions without data.

In most cases, probability is the study of situations to determine their absolute outcome. The likelihood an area will receive rain, that a person will turn left at an intersection or any number of other choices is broken down into a series of mathematical equations. These numbers are manipulated to find underlying causal factors, which will show the likelihood of certain actions taking place.

The term subjective means ‘relative to a subject,’ which is precisely the meaning of this kind of probability. A person makes an assessment as to a likely outcome based on his own personal beliefs and experiences. This form of decision making has a huge amount of inaccuracy and bias when attempting to replicate real-world situations, so it is often used for other purposes.

An example of the difference between the two forms of probability is in pre-calling the outcome of a sporting event. In standard probability, previous encounters between the participants are broken down into mathematical information. The potential interactions between key individuals are determined, and the process finds the likelihood of one group winning over another. With subjective probability, a person calculates the winner based on her personal experience with the participants and what she has seen in the past. Both methods are common and both have a similar accuracy rate, when performed by professionals.

When subjective probability is used to determine the mentality of a group, it is often accomplished through polling. A large group is asked its opinions on a certain subject, and the numbers show the mindset. At the end of the study, most of the group may believe in the inevitability of a certain outcome. This does not mean the outcome is more likely—it simply means the members believe it to be more likely. While this data is subjective, it reflects the thoughts of a group, which may lead organizations to act a certain way.

It is also common to use subjective probability to determine outcomes where there isn’t enough data for a normal decision. When faced with a series of options and no additional information, a person will subconsciously calculate the various outcomes of different actions. She will then make a decision based on a ‘gut-feeling’ or hunch; in essence, she makes a decision based on subjective probability.

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M. McGee
By M. McGee
Mark McGee is a skilled writer and communicator who excels in crafting content that resonates with diverse audiences. With a background in communication-related fields, he brings strong organizational and interpersonal skills to his writing, ensuring that his work is both informative and engaging.

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Discussion Comments
By Ariestack — On Dec 16, 2013
@EchoRoll: Yes, and if they act a certain way then their actions are more likely to be predictable. Unless an English Court judgment becomes the norm. The England and Wales Court of Appeals banned Bayesian Probability. We can't rely on Sherlock Holmes anymore.
By EchoRoll — On Dec 15, 2013

It is possible then to link probability and propaganda. If a group of people are made to believe a certain thing, even though it may not be true, their actions will then be predictable. If they believe a certain thing they will be more likely to act a certain way.

M. McGee
M. McGee
Mark McGee is a skilled writer and communicator who excels in crafting content that resonates with diverse audiences....
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