The Value of the Sum of the Squared Deviations from the Mean

question 73

Multiple Choice

The value of the sum of the squared deviations from the mean, i.e., $\Sigma ( x - \bar { x } ) ^ { 2 }$ must always be _____.

• A) less than the mean
• B) negative
• C) either positive or negative, depending on whether the mean is negative or positive
• D) at least zero

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Definitions:

Collective Wisdom

Collective Wisdom is the comprehensive insight or knowledge derived from the collaborative thinking and experience of a group of individuals, surpassing the understanding of any single member.

Devil's Advocate

A person who expresses a contentious opinion in order to provoke debate or test the strength of opposing arguments.

Groupthink

A psychological phenomenon occurring within a group of people, where the desire for harmony or conformity results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome.

Brainstorming

A creative group problem-solving and idea-generating technique designed to stimulate lateral thinking and produce a wide range of ideas.