3 ms·

Daily reminder that data isn't the multiple of anecdote.

• Izkata 3y ago
  Except it literally is. That statement is pretty much only used as a thought-terminating cliche that means "you're not allowed to have an opinion".
  • not2b 3y ago
    No, it literally isn't, at least, the plural of anecdotes isn't useful data. To be useful, data need to be collected in a uniform and systematic way. Anecdotes are memory, and it seems we are wired to remember the unusual and the unexpected. So you remember wrong forecasts (especially if you were caught outside unprepared), don't remember correct forecasts. Collecting everyone's anecdotes would not give you any insight about how good or how bad forecasts are. Pointing this out is not an attempt to silence you.