Statistics and the truth

By:  March 2, 2008 Categories: 

It’s scientifically proven: Black cars are 12% more involved in an accident. So, when buying a car, is it better to buy a white car?

It’s easy to think that way, but statistics don’t mean the world. Think a little bit further. Maybe there is a direct connection between the colour of the car and the amount of accidents, but maybe not.

Perhaps aggressive young drivers have a preference for black cars.

Sounds plausible, right?

Well, if that’s the true reason, you can buy a black car without having to worry about an increased risk of a crash.

People are tempted to put a direct connection between statistics and reality, but you should look a little bit further.

How about the following:
At fires, there are a lot of firefighters around.

Does that mean firefighters are often pyromaniacs?

See what I’m trying to say?

Statistics aren’t everything

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