Problem 111
Suppose that a newspaper published the following in a boxed corner of the want ads section:
Should handgun control be abolished? You can call the shots if you participate in our pool tonight. If yes, call 1-900-For-Guns. If no, call 1-900-Ban-Guns. You will be charge 50₵ for the first minute.
Why will the results of this poll be biased?
Solution
The results will be biased. The reason that the poll will be biased is first of all not both parties will be calling the hotline. Only someone that does not mind paying a fee will be calling to ban the guns, therefore more people will only calling the yes number. Also, there is no way to keep the same people from calling several times to the yes for guns number.