What have I done this week?

Firstly, I researched random number generators to try and understand the mathematics behind them. I came across the website RANDOM.ORG which claimed to be a "True Random Number Service".

"Perhaps you have wondered how predictable machines like computers can generate randomness. In reality, most random numbers used in computer programs are pseudo-random, which means they are a generated in a predictable fashion using a mathematical formula. This is fine for many purposes, but it may not be random in the way you expect if you're used to dice rolls and lottery drawings.

RANDOM.ORG offers true random numbers to anyone on the Internet. The randomness comes from atmospheric noise, which for many purposes is better than the pseudo-random number algorithms typically used in computer programs. People use RANDOM.ORG for holding drawings, lotteries and sweepstakes, to drive games and gambling sites, for scientific applications and for art and music. The service has existed since 1998 and was built and is being operated by Mads Haahr of the School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity College, Dublin in Ireland."

So, this shows that when computers generate random number, it is infact not random, as there is an algorithm involved.

I then found out more about pseudo-random:
"A pseudorandom number generator is an algorithm for generating a sequence of numbers that approximates the properties of random numbers. The sequence is not truly random in that it is completely determined by a relatively small set of initial values, called the PRNG's state. [...] Careful mathematical analysis is required to have any confidence a PRNG generates numbers that are sufficiently "random" to suit the intended use."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudorandom_number_generator

The fact that the algorithm can produce numbers that seem random to anyone that uses it implies that which more research, a random number generator may be created which will produce truly random numbers.

I had a quick read through this website and would like to note it here for futurereference. http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=how-randomness-rules-our-world

A book I came across while browsing on Google: Randomness by Deborah J. Bennett.


I now have a rough idea of the structure of my dissertation.
Introduction: Includes definitions of random and examples of random in everyday life. (approximately 500 words)

Probability: Probability explained and why it implies that random does not exist, and how random events are not as unpredictable as people think. Possible topics to include : reference to Chance by Amir Aczel, gambling, dice throws. (approximately 1000 words)

Short Introduction to Chaos and Quantum Mechanics: Proof to why pure randomness does exist. May also include other topics that I way discover. (approximately 1000 words)

How do some random mechanisms work?: Random number generators and other objects that have been programmed to be "random". (1000 words)

Uncertainty and Unpredictability. How should we cope with random events? How should one go about handling the subject of random? (1000 words)

Conclusion: Do I believe that random really exists? What have I learnt about random by doing this investigation? (500 words)

Hopefully this structure will give me a clearer idea of what I need to look for when I am looking at sources.
This week I will try to finish reading Reckoning with Risk (which is not seeming very relevant to my project at the moment) and maybe try to get primary opinions from mathematicians. I will also find more internet sources.

Here is my updated GANTT chart:


Here are a list of things for me to do for the upcoming week:
Collect quotes from Chaos
Research more books and internet quotes from the internet.
Begin writing the introduction (a very rough draft)