Standard Deviations

A timely new edition, fully updated and revised, Standard Deviations demystifies the science behind the statistics. Gary Smith guides readers through how data can mislead and how easy it is to confuse meaningful deductions with rubbish analyses. Drawing on behavioural economics, he weaves in insights from Kahneman and Ariely and responds to some conclusions of Freakonomics. The book highlights how we increasingly rely on data and computer analysis, yet we often neglect proper interpretation, leading to convincing but flawed claims. The result is a clear, consumer-friendly exploration of the tricks and traps in modern statistics, with practical takeaways for evaluating evidence in everyday life and public discourse.

In this edition, the author updates the discussion for today’s data-rich environment, offering fresh examples and revised explanations that reflect advances in statistics and AI. The narrative remains accessible to general readers while retaining rigorous critical thinking about how numbers are presented, framed, and sensationalized. With engaging anecdotes and sharp analysis, Standard Deviations helps readers develop a skeptical eye for data-driven arguments and to distinguish sound reasoning from misdirection.

Kenmerken

• Demystifies the science behind statistics
• Nieuwe, bijgewerkte editie met revisies
• Verwijst naar Kahneman en Ariely
• Bespreekt data-trucs en interpretatiefouten
• Inclusief kritische blik op Freakonomics
• Voorbeelden van misleidende data in het dagelijks leven

Gebruiksaanduiding

• Gebruik deze gids om statistieken kritisch te evalueren
• Let op hoe data geframed wordt en welke aannames gemaakt zijn