Data and denial
Observer October 31st, 2007
For the numerically challenged, a grreat little book, The Tiger that Isn’t, by Michael Blastland and Andrew Dilnot. Fit-for-purpose in times when spin has so often gotten the better of substance. If you suspect “the data” that underpins “the story”, the former Director of the Institute of Fiscal Studies offers clear and accessible guidance through the thicket. The book deconstructs and demsytifies statistics in an engaging way that deepens understanding based on our experience in daily life. While it won’t turn out armies of Carol Vordermans it advocates, as it teaches, a reluctance to accept the drama of headlines at face value. And it shows well the knowledge-at-large about both politicians and press in terms of selective opportunism in disclosure. So as ever, buyer beware.
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