In probability theory, to say that two events are independent (alternatively statistically independent, marginally independent or absolutely independent) means that the occurrence of one does not affect the probability of the other. Similarly, two random variables are independent if the observed value of one does not affect the probability distribution of the other.
The concept of independence extends to dealing with collections of more than two events or random variables.
Famous quotes containing the word independence:
“I saw the man my friend ... wants pardoned, Thomas Flinton. He is a bright, good-looking fellow.... Of his innocence all are confident. The governor strikes me as a man seeking popularity, who lacks the independence and manhood to do right at the risk of losing popularity. Afraid of what will be said. He is prejudiced against the Irish and Democrats.”
—Rutherford Birchard Hayes (1822–1893)