Welcome to an introductory course in probability and statistics. Statistics is a relatively young field, distinct from mathematics but certainly having its basis in mathematics. It is traditional to focus a good deal of attention upon probability before turning to the subject of statistics. In recent years, however, some, including the authors of our textbook, have argued that much of the probability included in the traditional approach is not needed to obtain a basic understanding of statistics. As a result, while a certain amount of probability is still necessary and will be studied in Chapter 4, our primary focus will be on statistics.
Between the two subjects, it is probability that is the oldest, arising primarily from an interest in gambling and games of chance. It is particularly interesting from the perspective of the Reformed (Christian) tradition that a subject with such dubious beginnings might, over time, grow into one with more respectable qualities, both it and, particularly, its offshoot, statistics. Indeed, one need not look hard to see the important role played by statistics in our modern culture. Often a statistical argument is fundamental in motivating support for social change. Statistics are used in determining the present state of things from the economy to people's television-watching habits. A new drug becomes available to the public only after statistical evidence of its effects prove its safety and value.
If, like those of us who are Christians, our cultural inventions are in the process of being redeemed, it is clear that statistics has not been purged of its fallen aspects as of yet. Many view the subject, not without some evidence, as one that can be bent to anyone's version of truth. It must be our goal as transformers of culture to learn what is and what is not correct use of statistics, so that when employing its procedures vocationally, we do so justly, and when acting as consumers we rightly discern good statistical evidence from bad.