Sense And Nonsense of Statistical Inference: Controversy, Misuse, And Subtlety

These lecture notes provide a rapid, accessible introduction to Bayesian statistical methods. The course covers the fundamental philosophy and principles of Bayesian inference, including the reasoning behind the prior/likelihood model construction synonymous with Bayesian methods, through to advanced topics such as nonparametrics, Gaussian processes and latent factor models. These advanced modelling techniques can easily be applied using computer code samples written in Python and Stan which are integrated into the main text. Importantly, the reader will learn methods for assessing model fit, and to choose between rival modelling approaches.

Conceptual simplified studies of the kind presented in this book could therefore provide valuable guidance when developing statistical methodologies, but also applying state of the art with greater confidence.