The theory of polarizable fluids is developed on the basis of a model
fluid consisting of anisotropic Drude oscillators with embedded perman
ent dipoles. A matrix Monte Carlo method is used to simulate these flu
ids and to compare their dielectric properties with the predictions of
the mean spherical approximation (MSA) theory. Simple identities are
used in conjunction with the matrix expressions to derive mean spheric
al approximations to the screening functions for charges and permanent
multipoles in polarizable fluids. This is useful in the theory of the
solvated electron.