Statistics As Principled Argument

by Robert P. Abelson

In this illuminating volume, Robert P. Abelson delves into the too-often dismissed problems of interpreting quantitative data and then presenting them in the context of a coherent story about one's research. Unlike too many books on statistics, this is a remarkably engaging read, filled with fascinating real-life (and real-research) examples rather than with recipes for analysis. It will be of true interest and lasting value to beginning graduate students and seasoned researchers alike.

The focus of the book is that the purpose of statistics is to organize a useful argument from quantitative evidence, using a form of principled rhetoric. Five criteria, described by the acronym MAGIC (magnitude, articulation, generality, interestingness, and credibility) are proposed as crucial features of a persuasive, principled argument.

Particular statistical methods are discussed, with minimum use of formulas and heavy data sets. The ideas throughout the book revolve around elementary probability theory, t tests, and simple issues of research design. It is therefore assumed that the reader has already had some access to elementary statistics. Many examples are included to explain the connection of statistics to substantive claims about real phenomena.

Genres: Science, Mathematics, Psychology, Nonfiction, Philosophy, Academic, Technical

240 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1995

Reviews

[Kenny Oyama]

If you're used to relegating statistics to only the results section in your manuscript, you need to read this book. Statistics are only effectively used when in (proper) context, which means that they must be integrated into the greater voice of your research. Being able to do so not only makes your papers more easy to read, but it even helps you understand the importance of the methods and statistical tools you use to explore your data.

[Cheryl]

"It will be of true interest and lasting value to beginning graduate students and seasoned researchers alike."

I shoulda read the blurb more carefully. I am neither of those audiences. And I've been reading about the use and abuse of statistics in more recent science books, so ok.

Nov. 2021

[Bipasha Sharma]

Easy to read, engaging, excellent examples + the author is pretty funny.
loved it.

[Wilte]

Excellent book, on how statistics can and should be used to make a convincing argument. A persuasive (statistical) argument has MAGIC; Magnitude, Articulation, Generality, Interestingness, Credibility.

The book does not explain different statistical techniques, but does gives very practical advice on how to use the outcomes and what possibilities are to generate convincing underpinning of the argument.

Very rich book, definitely worth the effort to absorb all the ideas, examples and wise suggestions.

see my tweets on this book; https://mobile.twitter.com/wilte/stat...

[Daniel Christensen]

The basic idea, that statistics is an argument, where you need to logically make your case and defend it, is excellent.

I agree 100%, and I think statistics needs to be taught in the context of scientific process and epistemology.

Ableson is entertaining enough, and his guidelines (Magnitude, Articulation, Generalisation, Interest, and Credibility of argument), plus his 8 laws are excellent (esp. '1. Chance is Lumpy').

Somehow, the execution didn't do it for me, but I can't put my finger on what it is.

[Annie Waddoups]

I bought this as one of the required texts in my intermediate stats/data analysis course. It addresses statistics in a clear articulate manner from the point of view of the philosophy of statistics. Refreshing after all those dry, equation-based textbooks! Highly recommended for those who are seeking to understand the underpinning of statistics (otherwise, you probably don't need to read it).

[Michael]

Do you love statistics?

Are you insane?

If you do, and you aren't you will love this book. It's a rationalist look at the common uses (and misuses) of the art of statistics, in the realm of advanced application (i.e. not percentages, etc.)

If you are insane, look at that behind you!!!

[Eldan Goldenberg]

Was strongly recommended by a friend: http://bps-occupational-digest.blogsp...

[Peter Flom]

This is a great second book for anyone studying statistics. My full review: http://voices.yahoo.com/book-review-s...

[Travis]

Statistics as rhetoric, that is, logos.