Official Statistics-A Plaything of Politics?: On the Interaction of Politics, Official Statistics, and Ethical Principles

This book explores the role of official statistics as a tool for reflecting society but also as a tool that can be manipulated. It discusses the interplay between politics, official statistics, and ethical principles, and highlights three themes: political systems and guiding principles, official statistics as a science of the state, and ethical issues. The book contains eleven chapters, including examples of misuse of official statistics over the past hundred years, and current topics such as digitalization, globalization, happiness research, overpopulation, migration, the Covid-19 pandemic, and climate change. It is primarily aimed at statisticians and readers interested in statistics, national accounts, economic and statistics history, and ethical issues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 374 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the multifaceted realm of official statistics, presenting it as both a mirror to society and a tool that can be manipulated by those in power. It explores the delicate interplay between politics, official statistics, and ethical principles, shedding light on the complex relationship that exists between these three elements. Through a series of insightful chapters, this book uncovers three central themes that serve as the focal point of its exploration:

Political Systems and Guiding Principles: This theme examines the political systems that shape the production and dissemination of official statistics. It explores the underlying principles that guide the creation and interpretation of statistical data, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and independence in the statistical process.

Official Statistics as a Science of the State: This theme delves into the scientific nature of official statistics, highlighting its role in providing objective information about society. It explores the methodologies and techniques used in statistical analysis, as well as the challenges and limitations associated with data collection and analysis.

Ethical Issues Arising from Official Statistics: This theme examines the ethical implications of official statistics, emphasizing the need for responsible and ethical practices in statistical work. It explores the potential conflicts of interest, biases, and misuse of statistical data, and proposes strategies for mitigating these risks.

In addition to these thematic chapters, the book also includes a series of case studies that illustrate the misuse of official statistics over the past century. These case studies provide dramatic examples of the ways in which statistics can be manipulated to serve political agendas
purposes, highlighting the importance of robust statistical practices and the need for transparency and accountability in the statistical process.

While this book is primarily aimed at statisticians working in national and international statistical institutions, it also appeals to readers with an interest in statistics, national accounts, economic and statistics history, and ethical issues. It offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, providing valuable insights into the complex world of official statistics and its role in shaping our understanding of society.

Weight: 776g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031046230
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022