Understanding the "why" of statistics and probability—a unique and useful emphasis on theoryThis outstanding textbook emphasizes theoretical comprehension rather than the narrow acquisition of concepts or skills. Probability and Statistical Inference focuses on the development of intuition and understanding through diversity of experience.This thought-provoking text reintroduces mathematics, abstractions, and theory into the study of statistics and probability, and demonstrates that greater abstraction leads to a wider applicability of the methods under discussion. Its unique approach to exercises integrates the knowledge gained here and promotes a more complete understanding of the material.Probability and Statistical Inference features: A wealth of examples illustrating concepts, theorems, and methods—from numerical data and details of calculations, to ideas behind some of the methods, and more Accessible, user-friendly treatments that clearly explain concepts and motivations while pointing out pitfalls and difficulties of arguments A selection of advanced topics for students who would benefit from more thorough explanations An instructor's manual with solutions available from the publisherSuitable for upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses in statistics, and as a professional reference, this unparalleled volume offers useful insights to anyone who uses statistical tools, whatever the discipline.