Indexes and Subjectivity
Rankings and indexes are always prone to some subjectivity. In this article, the author questions how the concept of ‘liveability’ can be ranked, and its potential pitfalls.
In the local context, even simple rankings can be questionable. For example, when certain local food shops makes it on the Michelin Bib awards, there will naturally be diehard ‘foodies’ disputing their credibility.
This is mainly because indexes are subject to the judgement and bias (inherent or otherwise) of the panel that decides the results. The judgement then might not be agreeable with everyone.
The criteria and metrics of indexes can also be questionable. Among the many possible metrics, how does one decide on a set of metrics? Each set of metrics often naturally also leaves out other possible aspects too.
Granted, this is often more relevant for indexes for subjective qualities, such as liveability and food taste.
But this subjectivity also begets the question: What are the objectives and purposes of having such an index? Who is the one deciding on this purpose?
Indexes are also subject to the readers own self reinforcing bias, as we tend to only believe results that we would like to believe. We often naturally filter out indexes that do not fit our point of view, and only believe in rankings that do.
As such, the main takeaway is this:
Personally, it is important to take these information and indexes with objectivity. But at the same time, take them with a grain of salt.
