The St. Petersburg Paradox: When the Math Says Infinity
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About this episode
A coin-flipping game has a mathematically infinite average payout. So why are most people willing to pay only a modest amount to play? We explore the St. Petersburg paradox, where a straightforward probability calculation collides with everyday judgment about money and risk.
The puzzle opens up questions about how we value wealth, weigh unlikely outcomes, and account for a house with limited funds. From expected utility to finite bankrolls, we examine why a theoretical average can leave so much out of a practical decision.
Note: This podcast was AI-generated, and sometimes AI can make mistakes. Please double-check any critical information.
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