Statistics: Evaluating if a theory is true
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At one time, the theory of biorhythms was very popular. The theory behind it is that our lives are affected by three primary cycles: Physical, Emotional, and Intellectual. These three cycles can be plotted as sine waves, beginning at zero on the day that a person is born. When any of the individual cycles is at a high point, then the things that we do that require the use of that trait are more successful. When any of the individual cycles is at a low point, then the reverse is true. Some people routinely monitor their biorhythms and act accordingly. In fact, there was a Japanese bus company that would not let its drivers drive a bus on days when their biorhythms were critical.
How might we evaluate this theory, to test whether it is true?
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Solution Summary
At one time, the theory of biorhythms was very popular. The theory behind it is that our lives are affected by three primary cycles: Physical, Emotional, and Intellectual. These three cycles can be plotted as sine waves, beginning at zero on the day that a person is born. When any of the individual cycles is at a high point, then the things that we do that require the use of that trait are more successful. When any of the individual cycles is at a low point, then the reverse is true. Some people routinely monitor their biorhythms and act accordingly. In fact, there was a Japanese bus company that would not let its drivers drive a bus on days when their biorhythms were critical.
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Once again, we can apply the theory of statistical hypothesis testing to check whether there is any evidence in the validity of this theory of biorhythms in reality. I would collect samples of data on the quality of work performed by several individuals during their high and low points. For example, if students ...
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