Churchill College Fellow and renowned statistician Prof. Sir David Spiegelhalter will join College Master Prof. Sharon Peacock for the second event in the Master’s Book Club series, discussing his latest work on navigating our unpredictable world.
As Emeritus Professor of Statistics at Cambridge and Non-Executive Director of the UK Statistics Authority, Sir David Spiegelhalter has dedicated his career to making sense of data and helping others understand the risks that shape our daily lives. His latest book, The Art of Uncertainty, offers readers practical tools for better decision-making in what he describes as our current “age of uncertainty.”
Throughout his distinguished career, David has focused on dissecting complex data to assess probabilities and future outcomes, bringing a unique perspective to the challenge of living with unpredictability. His work has consistently sought to bridge the gap between statistical theory and real-world application. His bestselling book, The Art of Statistics, was published in 2019, and The Art of Uncertainty in 2024.
In The Art of Uncertainty, David explores how individuals can develop a healthier relationship with the unknown. He argues that uncertainty represents “a vital relationship between each of us and the world” and demonstrates how people can quantify their degree of ignorance rather than being paralysed by it. David hopes his work will fundamentally change how readers approach numerical probabilities, encouraging them to understand that such figures are “constructions made on the basis of assumptions and judgements” that are “essentially subjective.” This perspective challenges common misconceptions about the certainty of statistical predictions.
The writing process for this book reflected the technological moment we inhabit. He incorporated artificial intelligence tools for both coding and researching ideas and stories before re-writing and checking everything himself. This blend of cutting-edge technology with rigorous academic standards exemplifies his approach to making complex statistical concepts accessible.
The event promises to showcase his talent for using “engaging real-life stories to communicate quite challenging ideas.” Attendees can expect an exploration of how probability theory applies to everyday decision-making, along with insights into why acting “as if” probability exists proves useful, even if it may not exist in the non-quantum world.
The event takes place on Thursday, June 19th, from 6-7pm in Wolfson Hall, Churchill College, followed by a drinks reception where guests can continue the conversation with the author. While the event is free and open to all, advance booking is essential. To secure your place, please reserve your place via the online booking form. Early registration is recommended.
