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There are many ways to generate numerical falsehoods from…

“There are many ways to generate numerical falsehoods from data, many ways to create proofiness from even valid meaurements. Causuistry distorts the relationships between two sets of numbers. Randumbness creates patterns where none are to be found. Regression to the moon disguises nonsense in…” quote by Charles Seife
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““There are many ways to generate numerical falsehoods from data, many ways to create proofiness from even valid meaurements. Causuistry distorts the relationships between two sets of numbers. Randumbness creates patterns where none are to be found. Regression to the moon disguises nonsense in mathematical-looking lines or equations or formulae, making even the silliest ideas seem respectable. Such as the one described by this formula: Callipygianness=(S+C)x(B+F)/T-V) Where S is shape, C is circularity, B is bounciness, F ir firmness, T is texture, and V is waist-to-hip ratio. This formula was devised by a team of academic psychologists after many hours of serious research into the female derriere. Yes, indeed. This is supposed to be the formula for the perfect butt. It fact, it's merely a formula for a perfect ass””

Charles Seife

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He mocks absurd statistical formulas that create meaningless patterns, exemplified by a “perfect butt” equation.

In simple terms: Fake formulas make nonsense look scientific.

Key Takeaway

Question data credibility.

Themes

statistics misuse of data pseudo‑science critical thinking

Mood

witty critical

Type

educational humorous

When to use this quote

  • research evaluation
  • media consumption
  • educational curricula
  • policy making

Key Concepts

data literacy scientific skepticism methodology critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you spot bogus statistics?
  • What safeguards protect data integrity?
A Different Perspective

Such jokes can obscure real data issues.

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