The handling of numbers in arithmetic and the progression into the more abstract field of mathematics and statistics is generally approached poorly in our education system. The inadequacy is not necessarily in the teaching techniques or the books and other text used but rather in the attitude towards these subjects. These subjects are seen as something which has to be taught because it is part of a preordained curriculum rather than a set of tools which are available to help people live a fuller, more productive and more interesting life. It is so enlightening when one hears people say, "I...