Statistical Science

Statistical Inference: The Big Picture

Robert E. Kass

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Abstract

Statistics has moved beyond the frequentist-Bayesian controversies of the past. Where does this leave our ability to interpret results? I suggest that a philosophy compatible with statistical practice, labeled here statistical pragmatism, serves as a foundation for inference. Statistical pragmatism is inclusive and emphasizes the assumptions that connect statistical models with observed data. I argue that introductory courses often mischaracterize the process of statistical inference and I propose an alternative “big picture” depiction.

Article information

Source
Statist. Sci., Volume 26, Number 1 (2011), 1-9.

Dates
First available in Project Euclid: 9 June 2011

Permanent link to this document
https://projecteuclid.org/euclid.ss/1307626554

Digital Object Identifier
doi:10.1214/10-STS337

Mathematical Reviews number (MathSciNet)
MR2849898

Keywords
Bayesian confidence frequentist statistical education statistical pragmatism statistical significance

Citation

Kass, Robert E. Statistical Inference: The Big Picture. Statist. Sci. 26 (2011), no. 1, 1--9. doi:10.1214/10-STS337. https://projecteuclid.org/euclid.ss/1307626554


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