Authors: Ashok Sahai (University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago) and Miodrag Lovric (Radford University, USA)
This article is a profound reflection on the philosophical, scientific, and societal importance of statistics. It begins by acknowledging recent critiques of statistical methodology—particularly hypothesis testing and p-values— yet affirms that we are still living in the golden age of statistics. The authors explore how statistical reasoning provides a foundation for discovering, validating, and communicating knowledge in the face of uncertainty.
Drawing on historical quotes and examples, the article demonstrates that statistics is essential in disciplines as varied as medicine, psychiatry, economics, climate science, engineering, genomics, pharmacogenomics, sociology, finance, and quantum physics. From clinical trial design to evaluating rocket reliability, from interpreting genome data to shaping public policy, statistics serves as an indispensable tool for quantifying uncertainty and guiding decisions.
The authors introduce a compelling metaphor of statistics as a game played by humans against nature, highlighting its role in approximation, optimization, and prediction. They argue for improved statistical education, interdisciplinary communication, and a unified foundation bridging frequentist and Bayesian paradigms. The article also emphasizes the growing role of statistics in data science, machine learning, and AI.
Statistics is portrayed as more than a technical discipline—it is a tool for understanding reality, empowering decisions, and improving human well-being. The authors conclude with a call for transparency, rigor, and public education to ensure that statistical methods serve society responsibly.
For full references, scientific examples, and an insightful discussion of uncertainty, see the complete article in the International Encyclopedia of Statistical Science.