Of what use are tests of significance and tests of hypothesis

Abstract

This paper discusses the role of significance testing, in contrast to hypothesis testing. It takes the view that the two processes must be differentiated because they are in fact different even though they possess some common mathematical features. A supporting view of significance testing is presented. Difficulties and obscurities are discussed.

Keywords:

• significance tests
• tests of hypotheses
• evidentiality of data
• repeated sampling principle
• composite null hypotheses
• bayesian processes