Graph Projections
Jan 10, 2011 Political
So, I’m out reading various economic news reports of the day. I’m watching some people predicting the end of the world, and others (mainly government sources) describing how wonderful the economy is. As I was looking, I came upon the chart below on this web site. The site isn’t important, just the chart — created by the government. Take a look:
The dotted vertical line 2010. To the left is past data, to the right is future, “projected” data. I notice two trends that, to me, really make this graph nothing but propaganda, despite its dire predictions:
1. The red line: Notice in the past, at no point does the line ever once go down. It evens out one time, but clearly, this line has always increased in the past. Why, then, in the future predictions, does it take a very sharp downturn? This is government spending. It has historically always increased. What makes these chart-makers think for even a second that it will suddenly decrease? I don’t buy that for a minute.
2. The blue line: Notice how historically, this line moves up and down over the years, in gradual amounts. Notice recent years show a strong downward trend. Then note for future projections, it takes a huge upward spike, and then continues at a high angle for 10 years. Once again, history shows one pattern, but projections show a radically different pattern. Again, this chart seems quite silly.
Claim what you want, as government does, but this just gives me more reason to completely distrust any numbers or data coming out of government.
[tip]If you enjoy what you read consider signing up to receive email notification of new posts. There are several options in the sidebar and I am sure you can find one that suits you. If you prefer, consider adding this site to your favorite feed reader. If you receive emails and wish to stop them follow the instructions included in the email.[/tip]
Tags: economy, graphs, prediction
Today Is The Big Day In Massachusetts
Jan 19, 2010 Political
Well folks the polls will open soon and the voters in the state of Massachusetts will go to them to elect a senator who will complete the term of the late Ted Kennedy. This election has national implications and is being watched closely across the country.
The pundits will be burning up the airways later today but I want all of you involved. Just for fun, comment here with who you think will win and by how much (as a percentage of the vote).
It is time to take a break from all the name calling and sniping that goes on and have a little fun so this post is designed to do just that.
Please keep comments related to the contest and don’t forget to make your prediction.
For those of you who have been living in a cave the candidates are Martha Coakley (D) and Scott Brown (R).
I will start us off.
I predict Brown will win by 4 points.
Now it is your turn.
[tip]If you enjoy what you read consider signing up to receive email notification of new posts. There are several options in the sidebar and I am sure you can find one that suits you. If you prefer, consider adding this site to your favorite feed reader. If you receive emails and wish to stop them follow the instructions included in the email.[/tip]
Tags: brown, coakley, Massachusetts, prediction