In "The Science of Conjecture," James Franklin embarks on a fascinating journey through the mists of time to explore the roots of probability and decision-making before the advent of formal mathematical theories by Pascal and Fermat in the 17th century. This book unveils the intellectual tools and methods employed by our ancestors when faced with the uncertainties of life. From the courts of law where judges and juries deliberated on evidence, to the chambers of witch inquisitors, from the bustling markets where merchants calculated insurance premiums to the quiet contemplation of philosophers and scientists pondering the mysteries of nature, Franklin weaves a rich tapestry of human endeavor in quest of truth and certainty in an unpredictable world. Delving into practices that ranged from employing hard numerical data to relying on qualitative judgment, "The Science of Conjecture" reveals a world where numerical estimates coexisted with non-quantitative reasoning, such as the legal principle of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Franklin's compelling narrative not only illuminates how our forebears navigated the seas of uncertainty but also offers profound insights into the evolution of probabilistic thinking and its pivotal role in shaping modern science, law, and commerce. This book is a testament to human ingenuity in the face of the unknown, crafting a bridge between the intuitive strategies of the past and the sophisticated statistical approaches that guide us today.