Publisher: McGraw-Hill
Copyright: 2003
ISBN: 9780071446433
Mr. Whyte takes a very interesting and revealing look at how statistics, logic, and various arguments are misused by politicians, the clergy, journalists, and various other repeat offenders.
He covers various topics starting with a discussion of whether you have the right to your opinion, goes on to cover motives, the authority empty words, looks at begging the question, the existence of coincidence, the use of empty words, the misuse of statistics, and finally a look at morality. In all cases he gives very relevant, humourous, and in many cases eye-opening examples (that most people wouldn't typically consider) of what he means and this allows the reader to understand the points that he makes that much better.
This isn't a long book but it is a very interesting read that definitely shows the reader how they are being guided into thinking things that are not true, especially when dealing with politicians, the clergy, and most recently journalists. At times this is being done intentionally by the politicians and at times the clergy. While under other circumstances a journalist is guilty of it because they simply do not understand statistics or in some cases choose to ignore statistics or facts in favour of getting a good story.
A great book that should be read by all.
