The illusion of certainty and the certainty of illusion

Tom Lang

Volume 25, Issue 3 - Statistics

The illusion of certainty and the certainty of illusion

Author: Tom Lang

Abstract

Critical thinking is necessary to edit a scientific article. However, in addition to questions about the language, we can also question the assumptions, documentation, and implications of the research, in a process I call “analytical editing.” A text with unverified assumptions, missing documentation, and unconsidered implications can lead readers into believing that they understand an article when they do not, creating the “illusion of certainty.” Here, I present an example of the analyses needed to understand a single sentence; a case study, if you will, of analytical editing. A close look at the sentence raises several important questions about meaning, measurement, statistical analyses, how data are presented, and how results are interpreted. Analytical editing, in conjunction with traditional substantive editing, allows editors to increase their professionalism and value-added to clients.

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References

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Volume 25, Issue 3 - Statistics

The illusion of certainty and the certainty of illusion

Author: Tom Lang

Abstract

References

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