OUTLIER
Outlier usually refers to an extreme deviation from a particular measurement. In statistics, an outlier is a distribution point such as a number or a score that is much further away from any other distribution points. Outliers are extreme values that deviate from other observations which may be due to variability in measuring or it may indicate experimental error; the latter re sometimes excluded from the set of
data. In such cases, an outlier can
cause serious problems in statistical analyses.
However, sometimes, outliers may indicate something scientifically
interesting.
So, how do we come to use the word outlier other than to
scientific measurement? Outlier (which is pronounced simply “out-ly-er”
although it looks vaguely French) was originally, when it appeared in English
in the early 17th century, simply another word for “outsider”, even
nonconformist or even eccentric. It has
come to mean a person or thing situated away or detached from the main body or
system; a person or thing differing from all other members of a group.
Given the above explanation of an outlier, we might notice
that among our relationships with other people we have met or know of
outliers. They are often very
interesting people. I have found them
very bright, intelligent and are very successful in many fields of endeavor, be
they entrepreneurs, doctors, attorneys, academicians, managers, or people in
all kinds of work. There are certainly many who have yet to use their
individuality as outliers and are young people still of school age who probably
appear somewhat unique in their behavior.
But maybe, they will self-actualize and become very successful. Conforming to expectations of society is a
challenge for youngsters growing up.
Sometimes, as children or adult outliers make wonderful contributions in
life and need to be appreciated more for their uniqueness. It’s very important to keep in mind that
those of us in our senior years have a responsibility to offer mentorship to
those who are younger. Our love and
understanding of them can go a long way in enhancing kindness and better human
relationships.
