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Statistics and Empirical Research

In: Exploratory Data Analysis in Business and Economics

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  • Thomas Cleff

    (Pforzheim University)

Abstract

One often hears statements such as these when challenging the figures used by an opponent. Benjamin Disreali, for example, is famously reputed to have declared, “There are three types of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” This oft-quoted assertion implies that statistics and statistical methods represent a particularly underhanded form of deception. Indeed, individuals who mistrust statistics often find confirmation for their scepticism when two different statistical assessments of the same phenomenon arrive at diametrically opposed conclusions. Yet if statistics can invariably be manipulated to support one-sided arguments, what purpose do they serve?

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Cleff, 2014. "Statistics and Empirical Research," Springer Books, in: Exploratory Data Analysis in Business and Economics, edition 127, chapter 1, pages 1-12, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-319-01517-0_1
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-01517-0_1
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