Based around a number of illustrative case studies, this book charts the development of our modern-day reliance on statistics. Topics covered include scientific innovations, administrative issues and the use of numbers in politics. By looking at these aspects of statistics together, the authors are able to present a truly original work.
Introduction; Chapter 1 Percentages and the Emergence of Statistical Objectivity; Chapter 2 The Republic of Numbers: Robert Gourlay and the Art of the Statistical Account; Chapter 3 Adolphe Quetelet and the Expanded Reproduction of 'Statistism'; Chapter 4 Form as Content: The Establishment of National Statistical Systems; Chapter 5 Immigration and Population Growth: an American Statistical Controversy; Chapter 6 The Epitaph of Imperial Statistics; Chapter 7 Statistical Expertise and the Twilight of Liberal Italy; Chapter 8 Politics of the Sampling Revolution;
'Prevost and Beaud's study combines technical statistical expertise with engaging and accessible historical narrative. Their path-breaking work bridges disciplinary divides as it offers new insight into the power of numbers.' Bruce Curtis, Carleton University
Luis Cordeiro-Rodrigues, Marko Simendic, South Africa) Cordeiro-Rodrigues, Luis (University of Fort Hare, Serbia) Simendic, Marko (University of Belgrade
Marja Tuominen, T. G. Ashplant, Tiina Harjumaa, Finland) Tuominen, Marja (University of Lapland, UK) Ashplant, T. G. (King's College London, Finland) Harjumaa, Tiina (University of Lapland
Marja Tuominen, T. G. Ashplant, Tiina Harjumaa, Finland) Tuominen, Marja (University of Lapland, UK) Ashplant, T. G. (King's College London, Finland) Harjumaa, Tiina (University of Lapland
Luis Cordeiro-Rodrigues, Marko Simendic, South Africa) Cordeiro-Rodrigues, Luis (University of Fort Hare, Serbia) Simendic, Marko (University of Belgrade