Help Save the Statistical Abstract

Robert Samuelson writes today that the Census Bureau plans to stop producing the Statistical Abstract of the United States due to budget cuts. Doing so would save a mere $2.9 million.

On the verge of extinction

That would be a travesty. Has anyone here ever not used the Statistical Abstract, going back to high school? Has it ever been more important, just as we now have this revolutionary way to distribute, analyze, and discuss information?

This is exactly how good countries decline--one seemingly small piece at a time. And before anyone realizes it we are trapped in ignorance. I hope this isn't our fate.

If you love knowledge, you need to write to the Census Bureau; the Director's contact information is:

Robert.M.Groves@census.gov 

phone: 301-763-2135 

Or sign the petition on this Facebook page. Or both. There are people in this country who know the price of everything but the value of nothing. Don't let them win.