In popular interpretation, the saying equates three categories of misinformation. Inaccurate statistics are correspondingly an invitation to public demolition by one's opponents. When animal advocates take outdated or sloppily compiled numbers into public debate, they figuratively stand up with pants unzipped. Some activists believe a big number is most convincing and dramatic, whether or not it can documented. Yet people are more often moved by the plight of one animal than that of many.
Smaller numbers are more hopeful.
When new statistics become available on any aspect of animal use or abuse, we ascertain their source, consider their accuracy, and make them public. The numbers place issues in perspective, measure our progress, calculate the distance we have yet to go, identify areas needing further attention, and help persuade people who have become inured to mere theoretical argument. We also work to develop reliable statistics in many areas where the numbers provided by other organizations are either inaccurate or don't exist. If you need a solid number, on any animal-related topic, give us a call. If it exists, we'll find it or tell you where to get it.