With so much time, trouble and effort having been taken in persuading everyone of the value of the Decision Review System to the sceptics, one can only imagine what the reaction of the ICC will be to such a basic error.

BBC: Jonathan Agnew column

As a result and with a need to ensure we do not make the basic error of double counting in terms of the hike in VAT on petrol prices, we calculate that underlying domestically generated inflationary pressures continue to run at less than 2% a year.

FORBES: No Need To Hike Rates In The UK

IBM, decades ago, made the basic strategic error of implementing a manufacturing integration schemata instead of outsourcing semiconductors and other components.

FORBES: Open Season On Icons, From Apple And Google To Charlie Sheen

Prior efforts had been a mixture of trial and error and hard work mixed with a basic understanding of the mechanics of flight.

ENGADGET: The Highs and Lows of Human-Powered Flight Alt

People who do actually know their physics have made the same point: that what has been discovered is a measurement error, not a flaw in the basic theory.

FORBES: Faster Than Light Neutrinos: Not So Fast

John Mezias and Bill Starbuck published several articles in which they showed how people do not even know basic facts about their own companies, such as the sales of their own business unit, error rates, or quality indicators.

FORBES: Most People Don't Know Their Business (so asking them about it is useless)