How can you ensure your Everest expedition ends in success? Why is it so hard to find a good fit when shopping for clothes? This issue of Significance has statistical answers to both these questions and a good many more besides.
We’ve also interviewed Robert Santos, director of the US Census Bureau, who proudly brings his “whole self” to one of the biggest jobs in US statistics. From his Mexican heritage to his previous side-hustle as a live music photographer, one unique life experience after another has helped him become the statistician and leader he is today.
As Santos explains, because statistics affects everybody, official data-gathering organizations like his must talk to everybody. And two articles in this October issue pick up on Santos’ view that nurturing understanding and trust in the public is vital—whether it’s through formal educational channels and focus groups or just ripping up the communications plan and starting fresh.
October Highlights
Russia vs Ukraine
We battle through the data to calculate who’s winning.
Data and Getting Dressed
Ever struggled to find clothes that fit properly? Here is part one of a statistical look at sizing problems.
Climbing Everest
Plan a successful attempt with data-based evidence.
Data Literacy in the USA
In praise of the Data Science and Literacy Act of 2023
Measuring Crime
How to improve the collection of crime statistics?
Building Public Trust
Why do so many people roll their eyes when they hear economic statistics?
Robert Santos
Read a wide-ranging interview with the director of the US Census Bureau.
Access the digital version of Significance through the ASA member portal. Print issues will be mailed to subscribers soon.
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