Relying on the numbers just doesn't add up

Rory Sutherland

In this article the risks in relying on statistics is explained and illustrated by two examples. It is argued that the way data is represented, or the question that is asked of data, can create a huge gap in understanding.

Relying on the numbers just doesn't add up

Rory SutherlandOgilvy

Decision-making systems based on computer models and statistical inference can be just as prone to error as any that preceded them.

During the O.J. Simpson trial, the prosecution made much of the fact that Simpson had a record of violence towards his wife. In response, Simpson's legal team argued that, of all women subjected to spousal abuse, only one in 2,500 was subsequently killed by the abusive husband. It was hence implied that, since the ratio of abusers to killers was so high, any evidence about the accused's prior...

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