JOURNAL ARTICLE

Bad stats: A regular series exploring slip-ups, snafus and salutary lessons from the world of statistics.

  • Published In: Significance, 2025, v. 22, n. 2. P. 42 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Prats, Jordi 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the persistent challenge of errors in complex scientific calculations, illustrated by Pierre-Simon Laplace's nineteenth-century attempt to determine Jupiter's mass. Despite using advanced statistical methods and extensive observations, Laplace underestimated the impact of calculation errors, leading to an inaccurate mass estimate. The article highlights that, although modern computational tools reduce manual errors, mistakes can still arise from coding bugs, data entry, or methodological oversights. It emphasizes the importance of transparent documentation, replication, and professional software practices such as code review and testing to identify and minimize errors in scientific work.

Additional Information

  • Source:Significance. 2025/03, Vol. 22, Issue 2, p42
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Physics
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:1740-9705
  • DOI:10.1093/jrssig/qmaf012
  • Accession Number:182904628
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