Connecting Numbers and Narratives

1 + 1 = ?

Mathematically, one and one may add up to two; but, to really understand the narrative of two we need to know the nature of one and the meaning of plus from multiple perspectives; for example,

Mathematician

In two hours, I will demonstrate it equals 2 with proof.

Engineer

It is between 1.98 and 2.02.

Attorney

In the case of “Smith vs. State” it was declared to be 2.

Trader

Are you buying or selling?

Accountant

What would you like it to be?

Social Scientist

I don’t know the answer, but I am glad we discussed this question.

Logician

This problem is solvable.

Developing narratives, while remaining true to the data, is a defining challenge of our time. Narratives are persuasive but not objective; numbers are often objective but not persuasive. For science to provide the broadest beneficial impact to society, its findings need to be communicated with both scientific integrity and authentic empathy. D3M@Tufts prepares data professionals who can bridge the gap between numbers and narratives for effective and actionable decision-making.