Math 143 C/E, Spring 2001
IPS Reading Questions
Chapter 2, Section 7

1. Focus on the diagrams of Figure 2.41 (p. 208). Be able to describe in a sentence or two the three explanations for an observed association between variables that they represent.

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. One thing that can be said about Statistics is that it is firmly entrenched in the fabric of society. For example, a prescription drug like Bendectin (see Example 2.38, p. 211) is not allowed on the market today without a good deal of statistical evidence that show it treats effectively the medical condition it claims to treat while not posing a substantial risk to the health of patients. The ``no substantial risk" part is somewhat more difficult to establish (after all, one cannot consider every possible response variable and conduct an experiment for each one), and when a risk is suspected, once again good statistical studies are required to establish the validity and extent of the risk. What is the role of the statistics-aware Christian in all of this?

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Be able to identify and expound upon the criteria for establishing causation in the absence of an experiment. There are 5 such criteria listed on pp. 211-212 in conjunction with Example 2.39 concerning smoking and lung cancer.