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Excellent Quote by Nathan Myhrvold

“Nobody wants a prediction that the future will be more or less like the present, even if that is, statistically speaking, an excellent prediction.” quote by Nathan Myhrvold
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“Nobody wants a prediction that the future will be more or less like the present, even if that is, statistically speaking, an excellent prediction.”

Nathan Myhrvold

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Future of AI, 2019

People prefer predictions that match their expectations, even when data shows a different outcome is

In simple terms: We dislike forecasts that contradict the status quo.

Key Takeaway

Challenge assumptions with data.

Themes

bias expectations statistics

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advisory reflective

When to use this quote

  • business planning
  • policy making
  • personal finance
  • media reporting

Key Concepts

cognitive bias probability theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you react when data contradicts your hopes?
  • What steps can you take to accept uncomfortable truths?
A Different Perspective

Statistical accuracy may be ignored if it feels uncomfortable.

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