Review of Stat-Spotting: A Field Guide to Identifying Dubious Data by Joel Best

Abstract

Best, Joel. Stat-Spotting: A Field Guide to Identifying Dubious Data. (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2008) 144 pp. $19.95. ISBN 1-978-0-520-25746-7.

Stat-Spotting is a practical, do-it-yourself manual for detecting questionable claims reported in the media. Using examples drawn mostly from mass media sources, Stat-Spotting provides readers with a number of useful tips for identifying potentially problematic statistics. The author’s skillful analyses and explanations presented in clear and concise prose make Stat-Spotting an ideal guide for anyone who reads a newspaper, watches television, or surfs the Web. In short, everyone.

Recommended Citation

Joe Swingle (2009) "Review of Stat-Spotting: A Field Guide to Identifying Dubious Data by Joel Best," Numeracy: Vol. 2 : Iss. 2, Article 7.
Available at: http://services.bepress.com/numeracy/vol2/iss2/art7