In Search Of The Average Doubt: Why ‘Life Expectancy’ Is Misleading

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta recently published findings showing the "life expectancy" of Americans has dropped in part because deaths by suicide and drug abuse have increased. While one might receive such news with keen interest, this writer received it with something approaching disbelief. At the risk of being labeled a "life expectancy denier," I shall here venture forth with alacrity and even some recklessness, as I see no reason a mere statistical construct sho

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta recently published findings showing the "life expectancy" of Americans has dropped in part because deaths by suicide and drug abuse have increased. While one might receive such news with keen interest, this writer received it with something approaching disbelief. At the risk of being labeled a "life expectancy denier," I shall here venture forth with alacrity and even some recklessness, as I see no reason a mere statistical construct sho…