This quote speaks to the importance of objectivity in research or any investigative endeavor. It suggests that significance tests, which are statistical examinations used to determine if a result is likely due to chance or represents a true effect, serve as a check on the investigator’s own biases adn expectations. The “natural enthusiasm” Mosteller refers to could be the investigator’s hope for a certain outcome, their preconceived notions about what they’ll find, or their tendency to see patterns where none exist.
Without such checks and balances like significance tests in place,an investigator might interpret data in ways that confirm their hypotheses (a bias known as confirmation bias),overlook vital variables or nuances,or draw conclusions that aren’t supported by evidence.In other words, they might let their enthusiasm cloud their judgment.
In today’s world filled wiht information overload from various sources including social media and news outlets – this idea is more relevant than ever before. As an example, when we read news articles making claims about new scientific discoveries or studies showing correlations between certain behaviors and outcomes (e.g., eating X food reduces risk of Y disease), it’s essential to remember these findings have gone through rigorous significance testing before being presented as facts. This helps ensure the results are not just random occurrences but demonstrate real relationships.
On personal development level too this concept has profound implications. For example when trying out new habits/strategies for self-enhancement based on popular advice – instead of just relying on anecdotal evidence one can apply this principle by observing if changes are meaningful over time rather than temporary fluctuations.
So essentially mosteller’s quote reminds us of the necessity of skepticism and rigorous testing in interpreting data – whether it’s scientific research findings we come across daily life or our own personal experiences while trying out new things for self-improvement.
