I disagree with Greg's claim that the mean is the best measure of center for this data set. The mean can be heavily influenced by extreme values, such as the weight of 75 pounds in this data set. In this case, the extreme value of 75 pounds can pull the mean towards it, giving a misleading representation of the center of the data.
In this case, the median would likely be a more appropriate measure of center. The median is not affected by extreme values and would provide a better representation of the typical weight of dogs in the shelter. In this data set, the median would be 31.5 pounds, which better represents the central tendency of the data compared to the mean of approximately 39.67 pounds.
Greg collected data on the current weights of dogs currently housed in an animal shelter. Here are his data, in pounds: 45, 32, 18, 24, 53, 29, 10, 56, 49, 75, 65, 28. He claims that the mean is the best measure of center. Do you agree or disagree? Explain why.
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