statistical illiteracy
[/stəˈtɪstɪkəl ɪˈlɪtərəsi/]
noun
analfabetismo estatístico
1. The lack of ability to understand, interpret, or critically evaluate statistical data, probability, and quantitative information presented in everyday contexts
Statistical illiteracy among voters prevents them from evaluating policy claims backed by data.
O analfabetismo estatístico entre os eleitores os impede de avaliar reivindicações políticas apoiadas por dados.
2. Difficulty in comprehending statistical concepts such as averages, correlation, causation, and confidence intervals
His statistical illiteracy led him to misinterpret the survey results completely.
Seu analfabetismo estatístico o levou a interpretar mal completamente os resultados da pesquisa.
3. Vulnerability to manipulation through misleading statistics, graphs, or probabilistic arguments
Statistical illiteracy makes consumers susceptible to false health claims in advertisements.
O analfabetismo estatístico torna os consumidores suscetíveis a falsas alegações de saúde na publicidade.
Statistical illiteracy has become increasingly relevant in both Brazilian and American contexts as societies grapple with misinformation, fake news, and misleading health claims on social media. In Brazil, it's particularly discussed in educational reform debates and public health communications. In the USA, the term gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic when public interpretation of statistical data became critical for policy decisions. The concept reflects growing concerns about scientific literacy and informed citizenship.
NYC Slang
not knowing your numbers; can't read the data
Related Idioms & Phrases
lies, damned lies, and statistics
missing the forest for the trees
can't see the big picture
fooled by randomness
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