Statistics can be evidential (evidence-based, which involves supporting recommendations with rigorous research evidence, and through persuasion e.g. Aristotle's "modes for persuasion" by using metaphors and analogies), or exaggerated or false, depending on their ultimate purpose. Often cited by propagandist states or as a non-metaphysical opposition to fact, data is sometimes circumstantial, but also an admonition of undesirable consequences. Results that can be censored, lost, or denied any gravitas by corresponding agencies. Consequent denial or deliberately mis-leading data, can and does create further division in unequal societies.

​

The “toy vending machine”, mostly positioned in areas of play, entices, and promises a "surprise" gift, [ perhaps a cynical early introduction to gambling? ] one that’s often constructed in countries with minimal human rights, or wage slavery, it becomes even more ironic and poignant to the ultimate concept of the piece. Therefore, when we alter the machines function, we remove its intended purpose, and create a modified entity, one that dispenses hard truths, re. discrimination and inequality: in the form of randomised numbers, figures and percentages, in this case, based on (actual evidence- based research) global health inequality.

​

A fair universal health care system would require an acta non verba for governments and health agencies to safeguard, that all necessary needs are provided, which would include child and maternal health, alleviating hunger, and the supply of safe uncontaminated drinking water. Plus, the absolute need for a legislative process of coalition building, citizen participation and commitment, including medical research and adherence to climate change initiatives for sustainability.

​

And yet, disturbingly [ or perhaps unsurprisingly ] societies or the nonpareil often fail to ensure basic survival needs and fundamental health care. Constituent states often ignore, prejudge, neglect and fail to agree on health priorities, regretfully acting in their own pernicious self-interest rather than engaging in a collective ideal or in comradeship, and indeed basic human-rights.

​

The Data Machine will ultimately be an interactive sculptural piece, set in the oft clinical and stark setting of a gallery, where the public can dispense their own data capsule [ transparent ] and choose to ignore the resultant corresponding statistic in an expression of indifference [ perhaps unconscious ] or to engage, research and consider it's significance with pathos and a philosophical questioning. 

​

Addendum:

​

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it will now include a few statistics of relevance.