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Belief Quote by John Allen Paulos

“In listening to stories we tend to suspend disbelief in order to be entertained, whereas in evaluating statistics we generally have an opposite inclination to suspend belief in order not to be beguiled.” quote by John Allen Paulos
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“In listening to stories we tend to suspend disbelief in order to be entertained, whereas in evaluating statistics we generally have an opposite inclination to suspend belief in order not to be beguiled.”

John Allen Paulos

About This Quote

Source Book: "Innumeracy", 1988

Stories invite suspension of disbelief for entertainment; statistics demand skepticism to avoid deception.

In simple terms: Stories vs. statistics: belief vs. doubt.

Key Takeaway

Question data critically, enjoy narratives.

Themes

critical thinking statistics storytelling

Mood

analytical curious

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • news consumption
  • policy analysis
  • education
  • marketing

Key Concepts

cognitive bias information literacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify statistical claims?
  • When do you allow disbelief in a story?
A Different Perspective

Statistical literacy varies, leading to misinterpretation.

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