# Analysis Deconstructed By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2024-06-14 As the insight-generating science, analysis is both powerful and subversive. Powerful because it can inform and inspire action. Subversive because it can erode the legitimacy of existing regimes of authority and point to alternatives. The power of analytics is seldom discussed when one is learning about analysis. The subversive aspect of the discipline is rarely presented. Instead, the majority of time is spent covering various techniques. These are undoubtedly important. After all, one can’t “do” analysis without knowing the methods that enable it. However, there is likely something else at play here. In discussing analysis with professionals, most view their job as doing what they are told. They receive an assignment, apply analysis, and present the findings. How they construct their job reflects a desire to maintain the status quo. They like it. The status quo gives them some authority and respect and pays well. They don’t have to think about things outside of the analysis and aren’t responsible for what gets done (or doesn’t). Why would analysts want to challenge authority and change the status quo? Ultimately, it isn’t about the idiosyncratic preferences of individuals. These will always vary. It is an appreciation of the inherent nature of analysis. Analysts are the only ones who can apply analysis to its fullest potential. That potential is powerful and subversive. #### Related Items [[Analytics]] [[Power]] [[Subversive]] [[Technique]] [[Methodology]] [[Status Quo]] [[Preferences]]