Definition of Statistics – Meaning & Evolution 🔍
Statistics is unique because it has two meanings — one meaning when used as data, and another when used as a science.
To score full marks, always explain:
- Plural meaning
- Singular meaning
- Classical definitions
- Modern definitions
Let’s break them down.
1. Statistics in Plural Sense 🔢 (Statistics ARE...)
Meaning:
“Statistics are numerical facts collected in a systematic and meaningful manner.”
Plural sense refers to data itself.
Examples:
- Population of India
- Monthly sales of a company
- Marks of 200 students
- Accident records
Characteristics:
- Numerical
- Aggregated
- Collected for a purpose
- Comparable
Plural = Data.
Singular = Method.
This difference is VERY important in BCom exams.
2. Statistics in Singular Sense 🧠 (Statistics IS...)
Meaning:
“Statistics is a science of methods—collection, classification, analysis, and interpretation of data.”
Singular sense refers to statistical methods.
This includes:
- Averages
- Dispersion
- Correlation
- Index numbers
- Probability
- Sampling
3. Classical Definitions 📘 (Old View)
A.L. Bowley
“Statistics is the science of counting, measuring and comparing.”
Webster
“Statistics is the classified facts presented in numerical terms.”
Focus:
✔ Numbers
✔ Counting
✔ Measurement
4. Modern Definitions 🌐 (New View)
A.C. Fisher
“Statistics is a body of methods used for making wise decisions in the face of uncertainty.”
Ya-Lun-Chou
“Statistics is the method of decision-making under uncertainty based on numerical data.”
Focus:
✔ Methods
✔ Decisions
✔ Uncertainty
ASCII Diagram — Evolution of Meaning
Original Meaning (State Data)
↓
Plural Meaning (Numerical Facts)
↓
Singular Meaning (Methods of Analysis)
↓
Modern Meaning (Decision Science)
Scope of Statistics 🌍
Statistics is now used in:
Economics
GDP, inflation, poverty, national income.
Business
Forecasting, budgeting, pricing, market research.
Government
Census, planning, public welfare.
Finance
Risk analysis, portfolio decisions.
Technology
AI, machine learning, big data.
Summary ✨
- Statistics has two meanings:
✔ Plural → Data
✔ Singular → Methods - Classical definitions focused on numbers.
- Modern definitions focus on decisions.
- Widely used in business, economics, finance, and technology.
Quiz Time! 🎯
Test Your Knowledge
Question 1 of 5
1. Plural sense of statistics refers to: