"If one cannot distinguish between lies and statistics, if statistics can be easily manipulated and presented to fit preferred narratives, what then is the real value of statistics as a social technology?" It's a good question. Research involving statistics, argues Ed Humpherson, requires three kinds of openness (paraphrased): first, making the statistical data available; second, being clear about the limits of statistics; and third, listening to users of the statistics and being willing to recognise when users have valid criticism. Humpherson focuses the article on government statistics, but of course these considerations would apply to any company, organbization or institution presenting statistical research to the community.
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