Outliers in sample surveys

Outliers can as readily arise in sample survey (i.e. finite population) data as in samples from infinite populations. For infinite populations, an extensive methodology exists: very little has been written on the finite population case. We shall explore matters of definition and concept to formulate some basic principles for handling outliers in sample survey data. Some existing methods for outlier accommodation are reviewed and proposals are made for the dual problem of outlier tests of discordancy.