ABSTRACT
Predictive modeling has become so common since the 1970s that we do not really think about it. In any realm where data have been collected, predictions have followed. Computer programs that make predictions will analyze any set of numbers. The required software is web-based and often embedded in our operating systems. Consequently, computers handle the mathematical complexities of trend extrapolation with lightning speed at near-zero marginal costs. Search engines lead us to more predictions than we can possibly use. We can even make predictions from our own spreadsheets at the push of a button-not to mention all the predictions that are pushed to us every day via e-mail and the media.
