Some issues in the measurement-statistics controversy.

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Abstract
Some problems generated by Stevens''s pronouncement that measurement scales (nominal, ordinal, interval, ratio) determine specific procedures are discussed. It appears that proponents of this view think of the statistical analysis stage in research design as equivalent to the overall design process, or that the interpretation stage is included in the statistical analysis stage. This aspect leads to the introduction of irrelevant empirical considerations within conclusions emanating from a statistical analysis. Such pronouncements are faced with certain logical inconsistencies. For example, two or three procedures having different scales yield similar results. Within a statistical analysis there are different contexts or levels of number analysis of different scale nature; yet these differences are not considered in the Stevens approach. Furthermore, the Stevens admonitions can impede progress with theoretical and/or empirical problems. An example is provided in the intelligence measurement area to indicate how important developments have occurred when these admonitions were ignored.

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