JSM Preliminary Online Program
This is the preliminary program for the 2007 Joint Statistical Meetings in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The views expressed here are those of the individual authors
and not necessarily those of the ASA or its board, officers, or staff.



Back to main JSM 2007 Program page




Activity Number: 98
Type: Topic Contributed
Date/Time: Monday, July 30, 2007 : 8:30 AM to 10:20 AM
Sponsor: Section on Physical and Engineering Sciences
Abstract - #308393
Title: Evidence Contrary to the Statistical View of Boosting
Author(s): David Mease*+
Companies: San Jose State University
Address: Department of Marketing and Decision Sci, San Jose, CA, 95192-0069,
Keywords: AdaBoost ; Boosting Algorithms ; LogitBoost
Abstract:

The statistical perspective on boosting algorithms focuses on optimization, drawing parallels with maximum likelihood estimation for logistic regression. In this talk we present empirical evidence that raises questions about this view. Although the statistical perspective provides a theoretical framework within which it is possible to derive theorems and create new algorithms for general contexts, we show that there remain many unanswered important questions. Furthermore, we provide examples that reveal crucial flaws in the many practical suggestions and new algorithms that are derived from the statistical view. We examine experiments using simple simulation models to illustrate some of these flaws and their practical consequences. This is joint work with Abraham Wyner at the University of Pennsylvania.


  • The address information is for the authors that have a + after their name.
  • Authors who are presenting talks have a * after their name.

Back to the full JSM 2007 program

JSM 2007 For information, contact jsm@amstat.org or phone (888) 231-3473. If you have questions about the Continuing Education program, please contact the Education Department.
Revised September, 2007