Averages


Average is the most dangerous of statistical assessments. It’s the easiest to lie with (especially to yourself) and the most likely to have zero real-world correlation. Keep a wary eye on those who revel in it.

Rely on medians and modes. Use ranges of values instead of singular ones. Emphasize relative sample size.

Reality resists reduction to simplistic explanations, violently, and you won’t enjoy the “average” impact of that implosion.