[Bell Historians] Dove inexactitudes

[LOVE, Dickon]

Carl Z talks about what an estimate represents:

"But those three expressions also have more strict meanings, thus:
7 cwt => this weight is known or estimated to the nearest hundredweight
7 1/2 cwt => this weight is known or estimated to the nearest integer 
multiple of 56 pounds (and possibly also to the nearest integer 
multiple of 28 pounds, although we can't be certain of that, since no 
one writes "7 2/4 cwt")
7 1/4 cwt => this weight is known or estimated to the nearest integer 
multiple of 28 pounds
7-1-16 => this weight is known to the nearest pound"

But then goes on to say: 

"By adding a single character to the formerly-exact weight, it is 
possible communicate this fact: "The weight of this bell was 
formerly known exactly; it has since been reduced by an amount that 
is unknown but certainly exceeds one pound."" 

So Carl is saying it is better to say that a bell is at least a pound
lighter than a particular weight (whether it is 1lb, 1cwt, or more, or
less). I say it is better to give an accurate estimate to plus or minus a
quarter rather than just minus a cwt (which it could feasibly be)! I would
suggest that the estimate also gives the reader a better idea of what the
actual weight of the bell is, and therefore provokes less debate.

DrL


_________________________________________________________
This email is confidential and intended solely for the use of the 
individual to whom it is addressed. Any views or opinions presented are 
solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of 
SchlumbergerSema.
If you are not the intended recipient, be advised that you have received
this email in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, 
or copying of this email is strictly prohibited.

If you have received this email in error please notify the
SchlumbergerSema Helpdesk by telephone on +44 (0) 121 627 5600.
_________________________________________________________