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Abstract:
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Statistics provides a theoretical structure for illuminating scientific questions, especially when variability is a feature of the data intended to answer the questions. Statistics may involve (i) the design of an experiment or selection/collection of data, (ii) graphical or other description of the data in the light of the questions to be addressed, (iii) development of a mathematical model, and (iv) analysis of (a) the adequacy of a model and (b) variability in the data that may obscure a simple, direct interpretation.
In this talk I will attempt a personal review of the history of important ideas in Statistics. To the extent possible I will try to describe the scientific, intellectual, or social context motivating the introduction of these ideas.
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