The Schweinkopf hypothesis: Empirical evidence and refutation from Mansakonko

Abstract

One of the central theorems in statistics is challenged by reported observations from the community of Mansakonko. This ambiguity threatens the precision of economic projections and thus development programme management. A review of the Mansakonko case suggests that the data supporting these observations are as accurate as can be expected under field conditions. Practical consequences of the apparent theoretical inconsistency led to an international games‐playing situation in which a transitory win‐win solution was achieved. Further research (s suggested to definitively resolve the theoretical impasse.

Notes

Department of Agricultural Economics. University of Stellenbosch.

A shorter version of this paper was previously published in the Journal of IrreproducibleResults. Permission to reprint relevant sections is gratefully acknowledged.