Prospects for Social Statistics in the Next Census Year

A complete classification of social facts in a discussion on prospects for social statistics in the next census year would probably not serve the practical interests of casualty statisticians and actuaries. The number and complexity of social phenomenon, and the lack of precise means for measuring or gauging social forces, are two essential checks and limitations upon our inquiry. Our interest must be confined to those facts in the life of organized society which can be readily recognized as "insurable incidents," or as necessary aids to a proper understanding of these "insurable incidents." The comprehensive summaries of social statistics subject matter arranged by Schaffle* and by Spencert would not be entirely suitable for our inquiry. We shall profit most from a consideration confined to static and dynamic demology with perhaps a supplementary reference to the elements of economic statistics.