title: Comparison is key.
abstract: Several concepts from Georg Rasch's last papers are discussed. The key one is comparison because Rasch considered the method of comparison fundamental to science. From the role of comparison stems scientific inference made operational by a properly developed frame of reference producing specific objectivity. The exact specifications Rasch outlined for making comparisons are explicated from quotes, and the role of causality derived from making comparisons is also examined. Understanding causality has implications for what can and cannot be produced via Rasch measurement. His simple examples were instructive, but the implications are far reaching upon first establishing the key role of comparison.
authors: 30 Walnut Creek Lane, Oswego, IL 60543, USA, markhstone2@sbcglobal.net.
authors: Mark H
authors: MH
authors: Stone
authors: A Jackson
authors: AJ
authors: Stenner
mesh_terms: D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D006801:Humans; D015233:Models, Statistical; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012106:Research / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012586:Science / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*