[Skybird]

Statistics are statements on the general outcome or trend of something, not on the individual's motive. They do not interpret or explain, but just describe the obvious events. Where they get used to try predicting probabilities, these again are just this: probabilities.

Statistics also do not allow to judge the single individual's behaviour that stands in front of you. Statistics are about groups and populations, not individuals. At best you can make assumptions about the probability the individual does this or that, as said before.

Im sure you know that. Just want to reiterate that.

BTW, the motive why somebody votes candidate A, is not relevant for the fact that his vote, may it be for conviction, may it be for protest, helps candidate A to claim victory. The voter thus still is responsible for his vote, in full. The motive does not matter for the result.

Statistics are descriptive and describe the factual event. Not more, not less. Using themin the right way while knowing about the can's and cannot's, turns them into extremely powerful tools of showing the truth. Its very hard and extremely unthankful to argue with a well-done, well-founded statistic. One just needs to always keep on mind what it is - and what it is not. Admitted, the persuasion to abuse them and to use them to twist and turn things, is immense. But it can be prevented - by rigorously sticking to the standards and not compromising them.