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Factor Analysis, Random Data, and Patterned Results

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 January 2017

Robert K. Vierra  and
David L. Carlson
Robert K. Vierra
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60201
David L. Carlson
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61761
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Abstract

Multivariate statistical techniques such as factor analysis are capable of producing patterned results with most, if not all, data matrices. This paper demonstrates that patterned results are obtainable when principal component analysis is applied to a random data set. It is suggested that Bartlett's test for the statistical significance of a correlation matrix be employed in deciding whether a factor analysis of the matrix is justified.

Type
Research Article
Information
American Antiquity , Volume 46 , Issue 2 , April 1981 , pp. 272 - 283
Copyright
Copyright © Society for American Archaeology 1981

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