How many people get poisoned by Halloween candy?
Most people would guess at least a few. More than a few have heard from a friend of a friend of someone getting poisoned. But the actual answer?
http://www.snopes.com/horrors/poison/halloween.asp
Essentially none.
Surprised?
Data matters. When we study "the gouge" rather than references, or when we make all decisions with our gut instinct and don't do the background research needed to make an intelligent decision, then we are letting down both ourselves and our sailors.
