Meaning: The quote "Definition of a Statistician: A man who believes figures don't lie, but admits than under analysis some of them won't stand up either" by Evan Esar humorously captures the complex and nuanced nature of statistics and the process of data analysis. This witty definition sheds light on the inherent uncertainties and limitations that statisticians encounter while working with data.

At its core, the quote reflects the fundamental belief in the objectivity and reliability of data, as "figures don't lie." Statisticians are trained to work with data and derive meaningful insights from it, assuming that the numbers themselves accurately represent the phenomena being studied. This belief in the truthfulness of figures is a cornerstone of statistical analysis, as it forms the basis for making informed decisions and drawing conclusions in various fields such as science, economics, and social research.

However, the quote also humorously acknowledges the reality that not all figures can withstand scrutiny or analysis. This acknowledgment of the limitations of statistics highlights the inherent complexities and challenges in dealing with data. Despite the initial assumption that figures don't lie, statisticians are well aware that the process of analyzing data can reveal inconsistencies, errors, or outliers that may not "stand up" to rigorous scrutiny.

In a broader sense, the quote speaks to the inherent uncertainty and subjectivity that can arise during the process of statistical analysis. It underscores the fact that while statistics provide valuable insights, they are not infallible and can be influenced by various factors such as sampling errors, measurement biases, or the inherent variability of real-world phenomena.

Evan Esar, the writer of the quote, was known for his wit and humor in capturing the essence of various topics, including statistics. Through this definition, he manages to encapsulate the paradoxical nature of statistics - the simultaneous belief in the reliability of figures and the recognition of their potential limitations.

From a practical standpoint, the quote serves as a reminder for statisticians and data analysts to approach their work with a critical mindset, acknowledging the potential for discrepancies and uncertainties in the data they are working with. It emphasizes the importance of thorough and rigorous analysis, as well as the need to interpret statistical findings with a degree of caution and skepticism.

In conclusion, the quote "Definition of a Statistician: A man who believes figures don't lie, but admits than under analysis some of them won't stand up either" by Evan Esar provides a lighthearted yet insightful perspective on the nature of statistics and the challenges inherent in working with data. It encapsulates the tension between the belief in the reliability of figures and the recognition of their potential limitations, serving as a humorous and thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of statistical analysis.