The trouble with statistics

In several recent posts, I’ve talked about the picture painted by the statistics that I’ve read regarding the state of Monroe county in particular, and the state of Appalachian Ohio in general.

However, the reality is that most of the statistics that I have been able to find have been dated. The most complete information comes from the 2000 census, so it is a little over five years old. Other data has been from as late as 2004. Only articles in the local papers have provided more recent statistical information, and they often quote the statistic without giving the source or any means of verifying the numbers they present.

Another issue with statistics is the manner in which the raw data is gathered and compiled. With a variety of statistical methods in use, data can often be interpreted in a variety of ways. Further, different methods of gathering data offer varying degrees of accuracy.

That is the trouble with statistics. What I have learned about the area I minister in tells me what the county was like five years ago. While Appalachia changes more slowly than other areas, recent socio-economic changes that have been felt in the region have caused a major shift. This makes all the previous data a prelude to the current reality.

So here is a plea to the readers of this blog: if you read, stumble onto, or surf your way to sources of statistical information that is more recent, please drop me a line. You can leave a comment with the information, and I’ll make sure to give proper credit in posting.

Thanks in advance.

- Pastor Tom