Page 132 - Invited Paper Session (IPS) - Volume 1

IPS115 Reija H.

ISLP challenges alternative truths
Reija Helenius
Statistics Finland

Abstract
We live in a world awash with data. We are confronted with an uncontrollable
flood of information daily – whether we want it or not. This stream of
information contains a mix of statistical information, fake news and so-called
'alternative facts'. It has long been asserted that statistics mislead people -
immortalized by Benjamin Disraeli's famous quip "lies, damn lies and
statistics". But is it as simple as that? Perhaps some fault lies with our inability
to interpret and use statistical information correctly? In the era of data deluge,
how can we assist governments, citizens and businesses to filter the wheat
from the growing volumes of chaff and use robust statistical information to
support sound decision making? The International Statistical Literacy Project
(ISLP) advocates for and promotes the correct use of statistics. The ability to
critically analyze and evaluate statistical information is an essential civic skill.
In today's data driven world, the ability to separate and discern reliable
information from the unreliable is not optional but necessary. Equally
important is the ability to compile and disseminate correct information
properly. In the context of this new information age, this paper outlines the
important contribution made by the ISLP in promoting statistical literacy all
around the world and, particularly, supporting teachers to help educate young
students - our future citizens and decision makers.

Keywords
Statistical literacy; International Statistical Literacy Project; Statistical Poster
Competitions; Fake news; Media literacy

1. Introduction: Too much information - the challenges of information
overload
The world is full of information. It has become a cliché to say that we are
living in an information overflow. In fact, we don’t live in it; we are about to
drown in it. In the same way that the world’s oceans are becoming polluted,
our information channels are filling with both information and disinformation.
We are ingesting disinformation in the same way that living sea creatures are
ingesting microplastics. According to some estimates, 2,5 quintillion bytes of
data is created each day (DOMO: Data Never Sleeps 5.0 [2017]). Google’s vice
president of engineering, Ben Gomes, estimated in 2017 that 0,25 percent of

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