Prof. Friedrich addresses the question "Do we need randomness?" in the HPI Colloquium this Thursday, May 28.

Where: Hörsaal 1, HPI

When: Thursday, May 28, 2015, 16:00

Title: Do we need randomness?

Abstract: Computers are typically described as deterministic machines that cannot make any random decisions. However, randomness is relevant for computer science in various forms. First, it can be used to make random decisions in an algorithm. Such randomized algorithms are often much simpler to implement and achieve good performance in the average case. Second, randomness can be a very useful tool in the analysis of (deterministic) algorithms. The resulting expected runtimes for real input distributions can be more meaningful for practical applications than general worst-case bounds.

This talk will present the use of randomness in a number of different domains. Starting from the very basics, it will discuss randomness in philosophy, quantum mechanics, mathematics, programming, social networks and optimization. No prior knowledge about randomness or any higher mathematics is needed to enjoy the talk.

Link to the HPI Colloquium