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Developing indicators: issues in the use of quantitative data about poverty.

Spicker, Paul

Authors

Paul Spicker



Abstract

Indicators are often confused with measures. This article argues that precise measurement is often inappropriate in relation to complex, multidimensional issues such as poverty. A good indicator should be understood as a pointer, not a measure. It should be accessible, robust and reinforced by other pointers. By treating indicators as quantities, summary indices conceal key issues, hide the values and concepts implicit in the exercise, and are vulnerable to mathematical accident. Using multiple indicators is sounder in principle, in methodological terms, and in practical application.

Citation

SPICKER, P. 2004. Developing indicators: issues in the use of quantitative data about poverty. Policy and politics [online], 32(4), pages 431-440. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1332/0305573042009499

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Oct 31, 2004
Online Publication Date Oct 31, 2004
Publication Date Oct 31, 2004
Deposit Date Sep 9, 2013
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Policy and politics
Print ISSN 0305-5736
Electronic ISSN 1470-8442
Publisher Policy Press
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 32
Issue 4
Pages 431-440
DOI https://doi.org/10.1332/0305573042009499
Keywords indicators; indices measurement; poverty
Public URL http://hdl.handle.net/10059/854

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