MISUSES OF STATISTICS IN SINGAPORE'S PRESS MEDIA

Abstract

The availability of accurate statistical information is vital for correct decision making. In a developed country like Singapore, progress depends on the ability of policy makers and economic agents to make correct judgments and decisions in the face of a rapidly changing environment. Since much statistical information are circulated via the press media, it is crucial that these information must not be hindered by misuses in statistics. The study attempts to seek greater insight into the misuses in statistics by considering these misuses in the light of press media environment. The basic function of transmission of information performed the press media calls for unbiasness, accuracy and precision in statistical reporting and presentation. However the various constraints faced by it tends to inhibit the attainment of these attributes. Data on the misuses of statistics collected from the press media are analyzed in detail under the following topics: definitions and measurements, graphical presentation, comparison of summary figures, sampling and surveys, drawing of conclusions and misrepresentative press headlines. Misuses of statistics are found to be of the two following types: they are firstly, incorrect data or methodology and secondly, misleading presentation, manipulation and conclusion of correct data. The cause of these misuses is due predominantly to the lack of statistical expertise and hence the corresponding remedial measures suggest increase in statistical awareness, frequent consultation and upgrading of statistical education. These remedial measures apply to all three involved parties, i.e. the source of the data, the press media and the reader. Specifically, it is found that the press media can play a pivotal role in reducing the incidence of misuses in statistics, depending on the social function that it performs. Finally, further research is suggested in the area of the social functions of statistics.