I found the “Precise generalities” section of chapter 8 fairly interesting. It was basically stating that it’s not always true when someone uses statistics in a claim. Like stating, “85% of all statistics are made up on the spot.” How are we suppose to trust this? We unconsciously use numbers to describe situations because sometimes it’s just easier to do so. Even though it may be easier, it’s most definitely not strong at an argument’s standpoint. Although, if the statistic is very high or very low, the book states that we can assume it’s a strong argument.
I’ll talk about a general thing I see on campus everyday. If I say “2 out of the thousands of students at SJSU have a bag that’s NOT Jansport, Northface, or Chrome.” You’d be able to trust this statistic because it’s a significantly low statistic, and assuming you’re not as observant as I am and know nothing more about the subject, this statistic could be taken seriously as a real generality.
I have no idea how I know about these things. I guess I’m naturally just a keen observer when it comes to brands in general. Haha Maybe I'm just isolated to one side of the campus, and it so happens that the side of the campus I'm always on, people have those brand of bags. Whatever. x]
Hey there! Nice post this week! I like how you picked this topic to talk about because I found it pretty interesting as well. I always thought that statistics were true in argument because it was a good fact to support the claim. I think it is easier for people to believe numbers because they see the big value. The huge numbers also looks like the speaker knows the topic well enough and the audience will believe it. I like the example that you used for this topic as well. I am very observant with backpacks we well. It is because I like bags so I always look at what people are carrying on their shoulders, weird I know. Good job with this post!
ReplyDeleteHello CVgotsoul,
ReplyDeleteInteresting post! I really enjoy reading your version of “Precise generalities” from Chapter 8. I too had always thought that statistic play a strong role in giving a claim its strength. But after taking my Stats class in high school my stats teacher told everyone that the same statement that you stated that "85% Statistics..." but after all you're right how can someone deny statistic as factual evidence since we wouldn't go out there and start asking around or checking to verify if that person's statistic was true or false. But yeah, great post! Always love reading your posts! KEEEP IT UP! :]
[ellacomm]