Interpretation of Data and Statistical Fallacies

Although statistics is essential to almost all sciences-social, physical, and natural and is very widely used in almost all spheres of huminity. It is not without limitations. The most significant limitation of statistics is the misuse of it. The use of statistic by the experts who are well experienced and skilled can analyze and interpreted the statistical data in correct way. Wrong interpretation of the data results in statistical fallacies which may arise in the collection, presentation, analysis, and interpretation of data. This paper throws light on the factors which give rise to misinterpretation of data and statistical fallacies. The study of these factors leads to minimize the statistical fallacies. Utmost care and precaution should be taken for the interpretation of statistical data. “Statistics should not be used as a blind man uses a lamp-post for support instead of illumination.” Statistical interpretation depends not only on statistical ideas but also on ordinary clear thinking. Clear thinking is not only essential in interpreting statistics but is sufficient in the absence of specific statistical knowledge. Statistics neither proves nor disproves anything. It is merely a tool which, if rightly used may prove extremely useful but if misused by inexperienced, unskilled, and dishonest statisticians might lead to very fallacious conclusions “Statistics are like clay of which you can make a god or a devil as you please.” The use of statistics by the experts who are well experienced and skilled in the analysis and interpretation of statistical data reduce the chances of mass popularity of this important science. Science of statistic is the useful servant but only of great value to those who understand its proper use.”