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 17^th 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.