How to lie with statistics [10] - Darell Huff
Chapter 10 - How to Talk Back to a Statistic
The final chapter wraps up everything by serving as a guide for readers to critically evaluate statistics and identify potential biases or misrepresentations. The chapter emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions to uncover the truth behind the numbers. Here's a breakdown of the key points with examples:
Who Says So?
Look for potential biases or conflicts of interest in the source of the statistic.
Example: A study funded by a pharmaceutical company might be more likely to report positive results for their drug than an independent study.
How Does He Know?
Examine the methodology used to collect and analyze the data.
Example: A survey with a small or unrepresentative sample may not accurately reflect the views of the larger population.
What's Missing?
Look for information that is omitted or not readily provided.
Example: An advertisement might highlight a product's effectiveness but fail to mention potential side effects or limitations.
Did Somebody Change the Subject?
Be wary of statistics that are presented out of context or used to support a different claim than the one they were originally intended for.
Example: A politician might cite a statistic about economic growth, but the data might actually be referring to a specific sector or a short-term trend.
Does It Make Sense?
Apply common sense and critical thinking to assess whether a statistic seems plausible and aligns with your existing knowledge.
Example: If a study claims that a new diet pill leads to rapid and effortless weight loss, it's important to consider whether this is realistic or too good to be true.
By asking these five questions, readers can develop a more discerning eye for statistics and avoid being misled by inaccurate or incomplete information. The chapter encourages a healthy skepticism towards statistics and emphasizes the importance of seeking out the full context and methodology behind the numbers.