social science number

from Jargon File (4.4.4, 14 Aug 2003)

social science number
 n., //

   [IBM] A statistic that is {content-free}, or nearly so. A measure
   derived via methods of questionable validity from data of a dubious
   and vague nature. Predictively, having a social science number in hand
   is seldom much better than nothing, and can be considerably worse. As
   a rule, {management} loves them. See also {numbers}, {math-out},
   {pretty pictures}.

from The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)

social science number

   (IBM) A statistic that is {content-free}, or nearly so.  A
   measure derived via methods of questionable validity from data
   of a dubious and vague nature.  Predictively, having a social
   science number in hand is seldom much better than nothing, and
   can be considerably worse.  {Management} loves them.

   See also {numbers}, {math-out}, {pretty pictures}.

   (1994-11-04)

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