Sir — “Lies, damned lies, and statistics”, a quote attributed to Mark Twain, is used to describe the use of statistics to strengthen weak arguments. Statistics often fool the public. And this seems rather true in the context of the world’s seven billionth baby — Danica Camacho, Nargis — whoever it may be.
How can there be an accurate figure for the total population of the world? No one is continually recording every birth and death. It is possible only to make estimates based on the census figures of various countries. The United Nations decided that the seven billionth baby was born in the Philippines. India has had its own seven billionth baby. One wonders how there can be two competitors for the same number.
Yours faithfully, K.A. Solaman, Alappuzha, Kerala
Published on 6Nov 2011, The Telegraph, Kolkata
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