Term Paper: Morality of Statistics Ethics/Business

SAMPLE EXCERPT:

[. . .] However, when the context suggests a higher degree of veracity and the results can be potentially misinterpreted, greater moral questions once again arise: a Gallup poll is assumed to be objective, as is an advertisement that 'looks' scientific, even though it might be produced by a biased party.

On a personal level, the analysis of both Ostapski & Superville and Geertsema are a reminder of the limits of objectivity, even in a numerically-driven science and the fact that an understanding of both the principles behind the analysis applied to the final result and also the consequences of the interpretation must be taken into consideration. The Christian belief in human rationality must also be tempered with an understanding that humans are fallible creatures and are prone to misunderstandings, particularly when they are being fearful and egotistical (as is often the case when people are looking for information from business-related content). Ideally, statistical evidence should support people's ability to make free choices, not hamper it.

References

Geertsema, J. (1987). A Christian view of the foundations of statistics. Perspectives on Science

and Christian Faith, 39.3:158-164.

Ostapski, A. & Superville, C. (2001). Reflection before action: The statistical consultant confronts ethical issues. Business Quest. Retrieved:

http://www.westga.edu/~bquest/2001/consultant.htm