Skip to content

Data Quote by Thomas Sowell

“Any statistics can be extrapolated to the point where they show disaster.” quote by Thomas Sowell
Download Open image
“Any statistics can be extrapolated to the point where they show disaster.”

Thomas Sowell

About This Quote

Source Book: Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell, 2000

Statistics can be stretched beyond their reliable range, leading to catastrophic conclusions.

In simple terms: Extrapolating data too far can predict disaster.

Key Takeaway

Check limits before projecting data.

Themes

statistics risk interpretation

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advisory critical

When to use this quote

  • business forecasts
  • public policy
  • media reporting
  • scientific research
  • financial modeling

Key Concepts

probability bias overconfidence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify the validity of a projection?
  • What safeguards prevent over‑extrapolation?
A Different Perspective

Data may be misused intentionally to mislead.

2.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Thomas Sowell

Explore all 823 Thomas Sowell quotes

More Data quotes

Browse all 3,134 Data quotes