already familiar with applied mathematics … where inference is needed
That’s where Jaynes shines. Many mathematical subjects are treated axiomatically. Jaynes instead starts from the basic problem of representing uncertainty. Churning out the implications of axioms is a very different mindset than “I have data, what can I conclude from it?”
I think this is true as well.
A previous acquaintance with probability and statistics is not necessary; indeed, a certain amount of innocence in this area may be desirable, because there will be less to unlearn.
Good quote.
But I would have bolded
That’s where Jaynes shines. Many mathematical subjects are treated axiomatically. Jaynes instead starts from the basic problem of representing uncertainty. Churning out the implications of axioms is a very different mindset than “I have data, what can I conclude from it?”
I think this is true as well.