Re: "Understanding variation" and "Statistics". Synonyms?

[David Kerridge <dfk@mwfree.net>]

>Mike Tveite wrote:
>- Are the terms "understanding variation" and "statistics" synonyms?
>- If not, what is the nature of the difference?

Up to a point, words are just what we choose to mean by them. We
must be careful, of course, because if we decide to use a word in a
way totally unrelated to what everyone else means by it, then we are
wasting everyone's time.

When I use the word "Statistics" I think of the subject that I taught and
practiced for many years. What I taught was a special form of scientific
method. I know that is not how it is always taught: but I taught it that
way long before I had heard of Deming (except as an expert on surveys).

Most scientific method deals with the investigative techniques of one
realm of knowledge, such as physics. Statistics deals with scientific
method which is specialised only in that it deals with the problems that
other scientists find too difficult.

This always involves variation, but usually statisticians are only called
in when there are other confusing factors as well. For example, we
may want to get reliable information in the complex systems of the real
world, instead of in the laboratory. Or to model complex and varying
systems, as in public health. Finally we have to design our studies to
outwit the genius for self - deception that is perhaps the distinguishing
mark of humanity.

So the real statistician is someone who practices scientific method in
a world of variation, complex systems, and human frailty.

That mixture sounds familiar somehow.

Maybe that is why WED never called himself anything but a
"Consultant in Statistical Studies".

Best wishes

David

dfk@mwfree.net
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