elpais.com
Debunking the "27 Club" Myth
A study challenges the '27 Club' myth, demonstrating that it is a socially constructed phenomenon rather than a statistically significant trend.
Spanish
Spain
EntertainmentDeathCultureStatisticsMythSocial
University Of IndianaPnasBmjAuthority Of Antiquities Of IsraelUniversity Of Pennsylvania
Zackary Okun DunivinMick JaggerPaul MccartneyBrian JonesJimi Hendrix
- What data was used in the study, and what was its scope?
- The study, published in PNAS, used data from 344,156 famous people who died between 1900 and 2015. The analysis demonstrated that the "27 Club" is a cultural narrative rather than a statistically significant trend.
- How does the 'Thomas Theorem' relate to the "27 Club" myth?
- The 'Thomas Theorem' explains the myth's persistence: if people define a situation as real, it becomes real in its consequences. The attention given to those who die at 27 reinforces the myth, regardless of its statistical inaccuracy.
- What is the main conclusion of the study regarding the "27 Club"?
- The "27 Club" myth is a socially constructed phenomenon, not a statistical reality. While the deaths of several famous musicians at age 27 fueled the myth, statistical analysis shows no increased mortality risk at that age.
- Why does the "27 Club" myth persist despite lacking statistical evidence?
- The myth's power stems from the compelling narrative it creates, highlighting coincidences and parallels in the lives of those who died young and famous. The story itself, rather than its factual basis, drives its endurance.
- What other examples of unfounded cultural myths are mentioned in the article?
- Other examples of unfounded cultural myths discussed include the duration of the siege of Masada, the deforestation of Easter Island, misconceptions about eating disorders, and the correlation between holiday season and suicide.