Government, Economics, and Statistics

Desrosières examines the intertwined development of statistics, economics, and government administration from the 18th century to the present. His analysis spans multiple countries and political systems, tracing how statistical methods shaped policy-making and governance. The book details the evolution of key statistical concepts and tools alongside changes in economic theory and state organization. Statistical practices across France, Germany, Britain, and the United States are compared to reveal distinct national approaches to quantification and economic management. The work covers major historical shifts in how numbers and data have been used to understand and control populations, markets, and social phenomena. Technical innovations in statistics are placed within their social and political contexts. This study raises fundamental questions about objectivity in measurement and the relationship between knowledge and power in modern states. The text demonstrates how administrative and scientific practices have shaped our understanding of social reality.

There are not enough internet reviews to create a summary of this book. Instead, here is a summary of reviews of Alain Desrosières's overall work: Readers consistently note Desrosières's ability to blend technical statistical knowledge with social and historical analysis. Many find his detailed examination of how statistics shape governance enlightening. What readers liked: - Deep analysis of statistical practice's political implications - Historical research and documentation - Balance between technical detail and broader social context - Clear explanations of complex concepts One reader noted: "Makes you question how we use numbers to understand society" What readers disliked: - Dense academic writing style - Complex theoretical frameworks requiring background knowledge - Limited accessibility for general readers - Translation issues in English version A reviewer commented: "Important ideas but tough to get through" Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: 4.0/5 (12 ratings) Most reviews appear in academic journals rather than consumer platforms. Professional reviews dominate over general reader feedback, reflecting the book's scholarly focus. "The Politics of Large Numbers" receives more public reviews than his other works, which are primarily discussed in academic contexts.

The Politics of Large Numbers by Theodore Porter Statistical thinking and its integration into modern governance mirrors Desrosières's examination of how statistics shape political decision-making.

Seeing Like a State by James C. Scott The book traces how governments use standardization and quantification techniques to make societies legible for administrative purposes.

Trust in Numbers by Theodore Porter This work explores the historical development of quantification in science and public life as a means of establishing authority and objectivity.

The Rise of Statistical Thinking by Theodore Porter The text examines the evolution of statistical methods from 1820-1900 and their impact on social sciences and state administration.

The Social Life of Numbers by Patricia Cline Cohen This historical analysis reveals how numerical data became central to American social and political discourse in the early republic.

🔎 Alain Desrosières was a pioneering French statistician and historian who revolutionized how we think about the relationship between statistics and governance. 📊 The book explores how statistical methods became intertwined with state power, demonstrating how numbers and measurements helped shape modern government policies. 🏛️ Desrosières worked at INSEE (French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies) for over 40 years, giving him unique insider insight into how statistics influence policymaking. 📈 The work reveals how economic indicators like GDP, which we now take for granted, were actually social and political constructions developed in specific historical contexts. 🌍 The book has been translated into multiple languages and is considered a foundational text in the field of sociology of quantification, influencing scholars across Europe and North America.