In discussions of probability, there is a lot of talk about samples. What makes a good sample? Is there generally considered an "ideal sample size" by statisticians? Is bigger always better? Is a sample of 1 ever enough? What important characteristic are statisticians looking for in their samples, when it comes to making inferences? For example, given the choice to answer a question from New York City residents about their opinions on the placement of a Mosque near Ground Zero, would you prefer a call-in pollfrom 4,354 viewers from NY1 (a NYC news station), or a random poll of 30 NYC residents? Why?