Codronchi Niccola (1 results)

First and only edition, of this treatise discussing the principles of probability and game theory, with a focus on the psychological and ethical dimensions of risk-taking. Codronchi argues that humans derive continuous pleasure from satisfying both real and perceived needs. At the beginning, he states, "There is perhaps no other more constant and universal desire among men than the desire to enrich themselves". Hope, he explains, is the defining element that distinguishes chance-based contracts from other agreements, and he systematically attempts to quantify this hope through mathematical probability. Codronchi discusses aleatory contracts, (those in which the outcome depends on uncertain future events), identifying three types: those where the ratio of favourable to unfavourable events is known, those based on experiential knowledge, and those combining established laws with experience. The author explores examples of gambling (including card and dice games) and insurance. In his arguments, he mentions Bernouilli, de Moivre, Suessmilch, and d'Alembert. The book is a finely crafted production, printed on thick, high-quality paper with elegantly set type, wide margins, and a strong, clear impression. Gaetano Cambiagi (c.1721-1795) was responsible for the Stamperia granducale (the Grand Duke's press) in Florence from 1772; this edition is dedicated to Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo. Riccardi II, Aggiunte, 48. Octavo (225 x 155 mm); pp. [vi], 123, [1], bound without initial blank. Contemporary carta rustica, smooth spine lettered in manuscript, edges untrimmed. A little glue residue from removed labels at foot of spine, front cover, and head of title page. Spine ends nicked, internally bright, crisp, and clean. An excellent copy.