The average is a flawed concept from "summary" of End of Average by Todd Rose
The problem with the concept of average is that it encourages us to think in terms of a single number representing an entire population. This approach masks the rich diversity of individual differences that actually exist within any group. By focusing on the average, we ignore the unique characteristics that make each person distinct. When we rely on the average, we end up designing systems and structures that are ill-suited for most individuals. This one-size-fits-all mentality can be detrimental in various fields, from education to healthcare. For example, in education, the use of average-based grading systems can fail to account for the different learning speeds and styles of students. This can lead to some students falling behind while others are not challenged enough. Furthermore, the concept of average assumes that everyone is average in all dimensions, which is simply not true. In reality, each person has a unique combination of strengths and weaknesses that cannot be accurately represented by a single number. By focusing on the average, we overlook the importance of individuality and fail to appreciate the full range of human potential. Instead of striving to fit individuals into an average mold, we should embrace the concept of individuality and tailor our systems and structures to accommodate this diversity. This approach, known as the "jaggedness principle," recognizes that each person has areas of strength and areas of weakness that are not necessarily correlated. By acknowledging and honoring these differences, we can create environments that allow each individual to thrive.- The concept of average is flawed because it oversimplifies the complex nature of human variability. By moving away from the average mindset and embracing individuality, we can create more inclusive and effective systems that cater to the unique needs of each person. It is time to move beyond the limitations of the average and embrace the diverse range of human potential.
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