More or Less: Behind the Stats Twenty years of More or Less
Oct 6, 2021
Reflecting on two decades of statistical exploration, the show revisits its roots with the original presenter and producer. It tackles discrepancies in vaccination rates, comparing UK figures and international challenges. Surprising insights reveal how front door color may influence property value. Misconceptions about TV standby power and children's swimming skills are debunked, while a lively discussion analyzes the logic behind Spock's character. The dynamic between Kirk and Spock illustrates the balance of emotion and reason in human nature.
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Episode notes
Vaccination Rate Discrepancy
- Listener Shirley Campbell questioned differing UK vaccination rates reported by Tim Spector (66%) and the government (80%).
- Hannah Ritchie clarified that the discrepancy arose from different denominators: total population vs. 16+.
Trust Your Instincts
- Be wary of statistically improbable claims, especially from unreliable sources like publicity stunts.
- Investigate methodology and consider various factors influencing the data before accepting conclusions.
More or Less Origins
- More or Less first aired 20 years ago on Radio 4, originally pitched as a magazine program about numbers.
- Initial rejections called it a "boys thing" and too boring for radio, but it found success after a unique pitch.