Statistics are an important tool for researchers and policymakers when analyzing particular social-related issues. The types of statistics that can be accumulated in relation to the area can be either objective or subjective (Rahman, 2020). Objective statistics are grounded in physical realities and numbers. Subjective statistics are typically related to how individuals perceive certain social problems (Rahman, 2020). Both are important for scoping out the object of the research and highlighting the views of affected populations on it. Both of these parameters, in turn, influence policymaking.
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) concerns itself with various aspects of policymaking. It provides evidence-based solutions and data to inform policymakers and individuals seeking to evaluate and advocate for certain solutions (OECD, 2020). An example series of articles found in the OECD site is related to geography of opportunities and rural well-being. The report finds that after the COVID crisis population growth in rural regions slowed down. At the same time, the population was experiencing a decline in the last several decades due to a mix of social and economic factors that stimulated migration (OECD, 2020). The rates of migration, the numbers of people born and deceased, and various other metrics constitute objective statistical data.
OECD report presents a report on subjective reasons for leaving rural areas as well. The data says that the majority of people leaving are youths that seek better life opportunities in cities (OECD, 2020). Other groups cite the inability to find proper employment in rural areas. Poverty and low standards of living are some of the other perceived reasons for departure (OECD, 2020). These statistics can inform policymakers to provide stimuli for people returning to the countryside, while objective statistics highlight the areas best fit for government intervention. Therefore, without statistics it becomes extremely difficult to visualize the issue and provide effective solutions to social problems.
References
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). (2020). Rural well-being: Geography of opportunities. Web.
Rahman, A. (Ed.). (2020). Statistics for data science and policy analysis. Springer Nature.