Calculated Risks: How to Know When Numbers Deceive You.H.G. Wells reportedly predicted, "Statistical thinking will one day be as necessary for efficient citizenship citizenship Relationship between an individual and a state in which the individual owes allegiance to the state and in turn is entitled to its protection. In general, full political rights, including the right to vote and to hold public office, are predicated on citizenship. as the ability to reed and write." That was about 100 years ago, but, as the author illustrates, our most highly educated professionals still have trouble deciphering statistics. Gigerenzer finds that many people don't don't 1. Contraction of do not. 2. Nonstandard Contraction of does not. n. A statement of what should not be done: a list of the dos and don'ts. realize that nothing is concrete--there is always some margin of error. Using examples from everyday life as lessons in statistical principles, Gigerenzer gives readers the necessary background for understanding risk and making educated decisions in matters ranging from health care to politics. S&S, 2002, 310 p., hardcover, $25.00. |
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