#6618
Mentioned in 4 episodes
Innumeracy
Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences
Book • 1988
In 'Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences,' John Allen Paulos argues that the widespread inability to deal rationally with large numbers and probabilities leads to misinformed decisions, confused policies, and an increased susceptibility to pseudoscience.
The book uses quirky anecdotes and real-world examples from areas such as stock scams, sports statistics, elections, and medical claims to illustrate the harmful effects of innumeracy.
Paulos encourages readers to adopt a more quantitative approach to understanding the world around them.
The book uses quirky anecdotes and real-world examples from areas such as stock scams, sports statistics, elections, and medical claims to illustrate the harmful effects of innumeracy.
Paulos encourages readers to adopt a more quantitative approach to understanding the world around them.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 4 episodes
Mentioned by Doug Hubbard when discussing cultural differences in attitudes towards quantitative methods.
217 snips
Measuring everything that matters (with Doug Hubbard)
Mentioned by Balaji Srinivasan as an influential book from his youth, highlighting the importance of numeracy in the modern world.
#259 — The Reckoning to Come
Mentioned by 
Tim Harford as the author of the book "Innumeracy", illustrating how people's lack of mathematical understanding can be exploited.
Tim Harford as the author of the book "Innumeracy", illustrating how people's lack of mathematical understanding can be exploited.
Number Fever: How Pepsi Nearly Went Pop
