The article addresses the long history of ideological manipulation of numbers, emphasizing the well-known adage regarding three types of falsehoods: lies, damn lies, and statistics. It explains how statistics are distorted across the political spectrum, particularly concerning various sensitive issues such as the Bolsa Família program, COVID-19 deaths, fiscal adjustments, pensions, and work hours. This manipulation suggests an overarching agenda across different groups, undermining trust in the figures presented to the public.

Furthermore, the author underscores that despite the issues with data accuracy, numbers and the criteria for collecting them can still invite criticism and potentially illuminate public discussions. The piece remarks on the overwhelming presence of data in the public sphere, likened to a smokescreen that obscures critical information, particularly the sensitive topic of deaths in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict. The piece illustrates the importance of critically assessing the sources and realities behind statistics that often serve particular narratives.

The article references the current conflict that escalated following the antisemitic terrorist act by Hamas on October 7, 2023, raising skepticism towards the casualty figures reported by Gaza's Ministry of Health. It notes that while the fatalities reported by this ministry are frequently met with doubt, such skepticism is exacerbated by Israel's restrictions on journalists' access to the region, creating a challenging environment for obtaining reliable and independent verification of the statistics related to casualties.