Abstract

Mainstream media tend to communicate numerical data in a sensationalistic way, frequently oversimplifying or even distorting them. The same approach to data is widespread also online where information cascades can multiply the deleterious effects of a wrong use of quantitative data. Moreover, by blurring traditional distinctions between producers and consumers of data, web 2.0 platforms potentially broaden indefinitely the process of collection, discussion and communication of data and figures. The result is an overload of numbers, increased by the pervasive availability of digital Big Data, generating a situation where it becomes very difficult to recognize «good» data from «bad» ones. The article analyzes such complex scenario, indicating in Data Journalism a possible way to untangle the data deluge.