>The reason why surveys are so popular is not because they give us a
>reasonably accurate assessment - which they do not - but because they are a
>relatively inexpensive magic ritual that gives us an illusion of knowledge
>and control in situations that are ambiguous, unpredictable and difficult to
>measure. They are modern version of the magic rites performed by
>"primitive" societies to "control" volcanic eruptions, make rain, or
>ascertain safe return of the fishing boats from the high seas.
Well put!
Sandwichman