Which type of statistics generally provides a more valid measurement of the phenomena they claim to measure?

Hard statistics are often considered to provide a more valid measurement of the phenomena they aim to quantify because they are based on objective, systematic, and rigorous methods of data collection and analysis. These statistics typically rely on official data and standardized metrics, making them more reliable and consistent across different contexts. Hard statistics often encompass comprehensive datasets, such as census data or employment figures, which adhere to strict methodologies, leading to credible and verifiable results.

In contrast, soft statistics might involve subjective interpretations or less formalized data collection methods, which can introduce bias or variability in the measurements. Therefore, while they can provide useful insights, they may not have the same level of validity or reliability as hard statistics.

Quantitative statistics refer to numerical data that can be analyzed statistically, but this term encompasses both hard and soft statistics. Descriptive statistics summarize data characteristics without generalizing the findings beyond the sample, which can also differ from the objective measurements typically associated with hard statistics.