Does the omission of stratification always constitute an error or injustice?

The assertion that the omission of stratification does not always constitute an error or injustice recognizes the context and purpose of the data analysis. Stratification is often used to ensure that subgroups within a population are appropriately represented and analyzed, as this can illuminate variations that may be obscured in a more aggregated view. However, there are instances where the overall analysis may not require stratification due to the nature of the data or the specific research question being addressed.

For example, if the analysis is aimed at understanding a general trend or outcome that encompasses the entire population, stratification may not add significant value. In such cases, the omission may not lead to a misleading result or an injustice. Furthermore, the importance of stratification can vary depending on the type of evaluation being conducted, the population involved, and the specific decisions being informed by the analysis. Thus, it is essential to assess the relevance of stratification in light of the goals of the study or evaluation rather than adhering to a blanket rule that its omission is always problematic.