How Charts Lie
Getting Smarter about Visual Information
13 October 2020
Description
A leading data visualisation expert explores the negative—and positive-influences that charts have on our perception of truth
Today, public conversations are increasingly driven by numbers. Although charts, infographics, and diagrams can make us wiser, they can also deceive—intentionally or unintentionally. To be informed citizens, we must all be able to decode and use the visual information that politicians, journalists and even our employers present to us each day. How Charts Lie examines contemporary examples ranging from election result infographics to global GDP maps and box office record charts, demystifying an essential new literacy for our data-driven world.
• With a new afterword on the reporting of the Covid-19 statistics.
Reviews
"[Alberto Cairo's] book reminds readers not to infer too much from a chart, especially when it shows them what they already wanted to see. Mr Cairo has sent a copy to the White House." — The Economist
