Which of the following is not a limitation of statistics? 1. Statistics can be Misused 2. Statistics does not study quantitative phenomena 3. Statistical laws are not exact 4. None of these
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: 2. Statistics does not study quantitative phenomena
Explanation
Statistics is a powerful tool used across many fields such as economics, sociology, medicine, and business to analyze data and make informed decisions. However, like any discipline, it has certain limitations. Let’s examine the options:
- Statistics can be Misused – This is a well-known limitation. If data is collected improperly or analyzed with bias, the conclusions can be misleading. For instance, selectively presenting data or using inappropriate statistical tests can distort the truth. Therefore, this is a valid limitation of statistics.
- Statistics does not study quantitative phenomena – This statement is incorrect and thus the correct answer to the question. In fact, statistics primarily deals with quantitative phenomena—those that can be measured and expressed numerically. For example, statistics deals with data such as income levels, population growth, test scores, and temperatures. It can also handle qualitative data by converting it into numerical form through coding methods, such as rating satisfaction on a scale. So, this is not a limitation but rather the core focus of statistical studies.
- Statistical laws are not exact – This is another real limitation. Unlike physical sciences, where laws such as gravity are exact, statistical laws are probabilistic in nature. They are based on averages and tendencies observed in data. This means they may not hold true for every individual case. For example, a statistical average might suggest most people in a city commute 30 minutes to work, but individual commute times can vary widely.
- None of these – Since option 2 is not a true limitation, this option is incorrect.
Conclusion: The statement that “statistics does not study quantitative phenomena” is false. Therefore, option 2 is not a limitation of statistics, making it the correct answer.
