Jaded, bo-baded

Okay, well maybe I went a little crazy on my post about the phrase “knowledge is power.” I admit, I like being a geek. Don’t get it twisted, I’m still irritated that we don’t utilize the tools that are available to us. BUT after my last stats class at Stanford today, I learned that even scientists are not apt to use the tools that are available to them. Now, that’s just crazy talk, but apparently true. My professor is actually trying to question the use of the 'scientific method' at Stanford.

How can we expect marketers to apply basic statistcs when the best of the best don't utilize it?

I learned so much in this class that I don’t think that I will believe data presented in any publication. I can just see myself reading Wired (one of my favorite magazines) and thinking, "That data can’t be true. They didn’t use a randomized controlled sample."

Move over Sergey, I think I now have a crush on Professor Walker. Hopefully he never finds my blog...

Another group of 'did you know' posts?

• Did you know that sometimes they don't change the gas station signs until later in the day? I was driving down south and I turned into a gas station with a sign that said that regular unleaded was $3.20. But, the price on the gas pump was $3.32. And this happened throughout my drive from Gilroy to Huntington beach. Interesting, eh?
• I don't know who comes up with the names for our military missions. You know like - 'Dessert Storm' etc. There is a military mission to deport illegal aliens (mostly those that maybe criminals, etc.) and it's called 'Mission Return to Sender.' LOL. I'm NOT making this up. I heard it on NPR.