Michael Blastland Lecture: The Public Perils of Statistics and How To Survive Them
This event is now full. Lecture given by writer and broadcaster Michael Blastland. This free event is open for anyone to attend and will take place at the Merchant's Hall, Hanover Street, Edinburgh.
"Numbers can be treacherous. Those that find their way into public argument - at the mercy of media and politics - even more so. In this lecture, Michael describes some notable numerical failures, and argues that there are two differing habits of mind that distinguish the good from the bad. What's more, he says, these are present both in those who generate numbers, such as researchers, and those who report or use them. What are these habits and how can we best survive and thrive with numbers in the world of public argument?"
Doors will open from 6pm, and the lecture will be followed by a drinks reception. Places available at this event are limited so booking is essential. Signup below.
Michael Blastland is the creator of Radio 4's More or Less programme about numbers, the author of two critically acclaimed books, one about understanding numbers in the news, co-written with Andrew Dilnot and called The Tiger That Isn't, the second a philosophical inquiry into his son's autism. He speaks, writes and advises widely on statistics, economics and data presentation, but says his dirty secret is that he is an English graduate. He also teaches journalists 'how to count' as he puts it. He was born in Glasgow and now lives in Hertfordshire.
