This paper introduces a novel concept of interval probability measures that enables the representation of imprecise probabilities, or uncertainty, in a natural and coherent manner. Within an algebra of sets, we introduce a notion of sub--weak complementation, denoted by ψ, which assigns to each event H a corresponding event of indecisive eventualities. Interval probability measures for an event H can then be defined by taking into account its set of indecisive eventualities, which is contained in the standard complement H^{c}. We characterize a broad class of interval probability measures and define their properties. Additionally, the interval distribution of a random variable is formulated, and a corresponding definition of stochastic dominance between two random variables is introduced. As a byproduct, a formal solution to the century-old Keynes-Ramsey controversy is presented.

Basili, M., Pratelli, L. (2026). A new approach for imprecise probabilities. MATHEMATICAL SOCIAL SCIENCES, 140, 1-13.

A new approach for imprecise probabilities

Marcello Basili
;
Luca Pratelli
2026-01-01

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel concept of interval probability measures that enables the representation of imprecise probabilities, or uncertainty, in a natural and coherent manner. Within an algebra of sets, we introduce a notion of sub--weak complementation, denoted by ψ, which assigns to each event H a corresponding event of indecisive eventualities. Interval probability measures for an event H can then be defined by taking into account its set of indecisive eventualities, which is contained in the standard complement H^{c}. We characterize a broad class of interval probability measures and define their properties. Additionally, the interval distribution of a random variable is formulated, and a corresponding definition of stochastic dominance between two random variables is introduced. As a byproduct, a formal solution to the century-old Keynes-Ramsey controversy is presented.
2026
Basili, M., Pratelli, L. (2026). A new approach for imprecise probabilities. MATHEMATICAL SOCIAL SCIENCES, 140, 1-13.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11365/1314419
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