Statistical Deception

Tricia Awi, 5 + Alyanna Basbas, 6     F-9H  

Statistical Deception {Project}

What is Statistical Deception, anyway?

•  Statistical Deception is basically lying with statistics by putting a 'positive spin' on the data or facts. It is the persuasive power of numbers, particularly the use of statistics to support a weak argument. It is also sometimes used to prove an opponent's point.

Now that we know what statistical deception is, let's have example shall we?

  

Guide Questions:

1. Who is the source of the information? Is the source reliable? First, they didn't state the source of where they got their information. It just states that the test was conducted in Metro Manila in May 2010.
2. Does the source have an agenda that would cause the data to be biased? It doesn't show which statistical method was used. No survey or interviews. Only tests were conducted. The interviewees could have lied about it being the best soap bar.
3. Was the data gathered using reliable statistical methods? No, because there are many different kinds of people compared to the ones in Metro Manila. This product's effects may vary. Many women's skin react differently to different kinds of soap. Therefore, the method used is not reliable.
4. If people were surveyed, what medium was used? Experimentation and observation; they made women use the product to gather their results.
5. Are your emotions or intellect being appealed to? Yes, because the advertisement persuades women to buy the product.
6. Are all the information correct? What are they? Show proof. The information is incorrect because it says that 9 out 10 women in metro Manila prefer using the said product. The information is based on the women's opinions therefore, it is incorrect and could not possibly show proof and cannot appeal to everyone in the same manner.

Summary 😊
     We therefore conclude that not all commercial advertisements are reliable. All products may or may not be meant for everyone to be used. Commercials like this can feed the intended audience incorrect or invaluable information. In statistics, it is important to be honest and precise so that the audience can fully understand the proposition or product.