How statistics can support the arguments

How statistics can support the arguments Statistics come with a convincing power. Freed from all ambiguity of words, statistics offer concrete evidence that strengthens arguments. Statistics numerically convey information. It is the use of data to emphasize arguments. As a matter of fact, experts consider statistics as an accessible and convincing way of providing numerical evidence to arguments.apa format sample paper Conventionally, statistics are sparingly used alongside explanations to argue in favor of or against arguments (Hand, 2004). Despite being considered factual, experts argue that statistical numbers can be presented in varied ways to suggest dramatically varying conclusions (Bhalerao, 2014). As a result, it is important that statisticians pay attention to conflicting information in addition to understanding the statistical data’s full context. In the next paragraph, the writer uses statistics to further his arguments and other than crediting the data source, succinctly summarizes and states plainly the conclusion drawn from the statistics: Southern Brooklyn’s median household income was $51,054 in 2009, according the American Community Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. Southern Brooklyn is ranked 11th among states, well above the national median of $46,242. Southern Brooklyn’s median family income, $63,998, ranked tenth-highest among states. The New York median family income was $55,832 (United Health Foundation, 2010).

Family income exceeds household income because non-family households generally have lower incomes than families. Nonfamily households are those with only one person or where unrelated people live together. On average nonfamily households are smaller and have fewer earners (US Health state, 2011). One-person households, which make up more than a quarter of all households in Southern Brooklyn, tend to have especially low incomes. They often contain an older person living on a modest retirement income. All the measures of median income are subject to sampling error; Southern Brooklyn might really be a few ranks above or below tenth or eleventh. The differences between Southern Brooklyn and New York are statistically significant. Based on the reported statistics, family households living in South Brooklyn are likely to higher income compared to the national median income. In essence, the example paragraph highlights how statistics can support writer’s contention and hence lead to the conclusion that a general statement provided is true. Further, it offers specifics and facts in support or against the claim being analyzed. According Bhalerao (2014) a well-positioned statistic is useful in convincing the audience of an argument’s validity. As a matter of fact, writer’s math command often cows the audience and hence making it easy to overwork statistic’s power.

Additionally, the vivid description offered by statistics assists in capture and retention of audience’s attention. However, critics argue that it is easy to lie when using statistics to further an argument (Bhalerao, 2014). For instance, citing that the average annual income in Europe is $100,000 would make everyone in Europe sound richer while the truth is that there are substantial disparities between the rich and poor in Europe. Use of statistics offers excellent support for arguments. They employ numbers that are concrete. As a matter of fact, it can be concluded that statistics use logic and facts in supporting arguments. Statistical information can also be translated into visual aids such as charts, tables and figures. In this regard, statistics helps to further arguments by translating important information visuals that not only improve readability but also provide a strong cosmetic foot print.