War, Pestilence, Death and … Statistics!? (Glasgow)

Manipulative. Untrustworthy. But evil? Often portrayed as the most deceptive and most disliked of the mathematical sciences, statistics gets a bad reputation.

Liam will explore how statistics has been interwoven throughout all things morbid in our history, including more “traditional” evils of War, Pestilence and Death. Through some grim statistical stories and interactive games and puzzles, we explore why the world may not be as it first appears and whether you can really trust the figures.

Dr. Liam Brierley is a white man with short hair. He wears glasses and a buttoned-up checked shirt. — Guest Speaker Dr. Liam Brierley

About the Speaker:

Dr. Liam Brierley is a Research Fellow in Virology and Affiliate Researcher at the University of Glasgow. His work focuses on the cross-species transmission of RNA viruses, using cutting-edge computational technologies to explore ecological contexts, evolutionary dynamics, and pandemic preparedness. A Fellow of the Royal Statistical Society and Higher Education Academy, Dr. Brierley has received multiple research fellowships, including an MRC Career Development Award. Beyond academia, he is a passionate science communicator, co-organising Bright Club Glasgow and delivering engaging outreach events, including shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Sign-up!

This event is open to all Humanist Society Scotland members, supporters, and anyone who shares our vision and values. Participation is free.

You can just show-up, but it’s helpful if you can register through Meetup to give organisers an idea of how many people to expect.

Doors open at 1pm for a 1.30pm prompt start.