Quote by Source Unknown

Often statistics are used as a drunken man uses lamp posts... for support rather than illumination.

Often statistics are used as a drunken man uses lamp posts..

Summary

This quote suggests that statistics are frequently mishandled and misused. Similar to how a drunk person might lean on a lamp post for stability, statistics are often used merely to support pre-existing beliefs or arguments rather than to provide genuine illumination or understanding. Instead of being employed as a tool for critical thinking and acquiring knowledge, statistics are often cherry-picked or manipulated to validate predetermined positions, rendering them ineffective in genuinely shedding light on complex issues. The quote highlights the importance of using statistics responsibly and objectively, with an aim to illuminate rather than bolster preconceptions.

Topics

Statistics

By Source Unknown

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