There is a general perception that statistical knowledge is all-too-frequently intentionally misused. Explain how.
There is a general perception that statistical knowledge is all-too-frequently intentionally misused. Explain how.
Statistics is the most dangerous tool in the hands of an inexpert. Figures can be moulded and manipul to conceal the truth and present a distorted picture of the facts to meet selfish ends. By choosing a certain sample, results can be manipulated. Such manipulations can arise from unintentional biases of the researcher, or faulty choice of sample or data. The graphs used to summarise data can also be misleading. If various studies appear to contradict one another, then the public may come to distrust such studies. For example, one study may suggest that a given diet or activity raises blood Pressure while another may suggest that it lowers blood pressure. It is, thus, essential to know the subject thoroughly and use it with due care. Before interpreting the results it is necessary to know the complete facts, and verifying the results.
Statistics is the most dangerous tool in the hands of an inexpert. Figures can be moulded and manipul to conceal the truth and present a distorted picture of the facts to meet selfish ends. By choosing a certain sample, results can be manipulated. Such manipulations can arise from unintentional biases of the researcher, or faulty choice of sample or data. The graphs used to summarise data can also be misleading. If various studies appear to contradict one another, then the public may come to distrust such studies. For example, one study may suggest that a given diet or activity raises blood Pressure while another may suggest that it lowers blood pressure. It is, thus, essential to know the subject thoroughly and use it with due care. Before interpreting the results it is necessary to know the complete facts, and verifying the results.
