Motivated numeracy is a phenomenon describing how an individual’s numeracy can intensify their use of motivated reasoning, which is interpreting data to get to a preferred conclusion. The persistence of motivated reasoning could be explained by the Identity-protective Cognition Thesis (ICT) and Science Comprehension Thesis (SCT) suggesting either people deem it hard to accept information conflicting with their beliefs (motivated numeracy), or they come to the wrong conclusion because they do not understand scientific data. In a pre-registered experiment with a between- subject design and an online American MTurk sample (n= 3 073), we replicated the experiment of Kahan, Peters, Dawson and Slovic (2017). Based on four fictional conditions including polarizing and non-polarizing topics, the subjects were randomized into one out of the four and their ability to interpret quantitative information was measured. Their numeracy score was compared to their interpretation of the data in the conditions to see if correct interpretations varied depending on the condition’s nature. The results showed weak tendencies of motivated reasoning and motivated numeracy, presenting weak to no consistency with the results of the original study. Weak tendencies for both SCT and ICT suggested both, and none, could explain the behavior. Based on the results, improvements in science communication and objective interpretation in society are suggested.