STATISTICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND THE DISTRACTION OF “SCIENTIFIC PROOF”

Abstract

The related topics of statistical significance and the distraction of “scientific proof” are sometimes critical to an understanding of expert evidence. This article relates primarily to the causes of disability and death in the context of claims for damages, workers’ compensation, motorvehicle insurance benefits, disability insurance, claims under some other types of insurance, and military pensions for disabilities and deaths resulting from military service. This article can also be relevant in Charter cases,1 and in criminal proceedings, though comments on the burden and standard of proof would need to be modified for that context. It can also be relevant to academic research, public policy choices, and the roles of business corporations, universities, and professional bodies.