0
$\begingroup$

There is are basically two versions of the St Petersburg paradox.

They differ only on a minor point, namely in the amount that is paid. In one version, $n$ heads and then tails gives a payout of $2^{n+1}$ (minus the price that was paid to play the game). In another version, $n$ heads and then tails gives a payout of $2^n$.

I'd like to know which version was originally used. I think the letters wherein the paradox was introduced are present in the second version of Ars conjectandi, 1713. However, I haven't been able to find the paradox or those letters in the versions of Ars conjectandi I found.

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

3
$\begingroup$

See :

Cinquiéme Problème. On demande la meme chose si A promet à B de lui donner des écus en cette progression $1, 2, 4, 8, 16$ etc. [Fifth Problem. One asks the same thing [see: Fourth Problem] if A promises to B to give him some coins in this progression $1, 2, 4, 8, 16$ etc. ]

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.