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.”
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.
Challenge assumptions with data.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- business planning
- policy making
- personal finance
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you react when data contradicts your hopes?
- What steps can you take to accept uncomfortable truths?
Statistical accuracy may be ignored if it feels uncomfortable.