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Some Comments on the Use of Mathematical Models in Anthropology

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 January 2017

Dwight W. Read
Dwight W. Read*
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology,University of California, Los Angeles
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Abstract

It has become increasingly apparent that mathematical models may play a significant role in anthropological methodology. Less apparent is the fact that such models have an important place in formulation of theory as well. At the same time, many errors appear in attempts to use mathematical models. This paper attempts to indicate the nature of such errors and a methodology by which they can be avoided. A case study is presented showing the relationship of mathematical models to anthropological theory.

Type
Articles
Information
American Antiquity , Volume 39 , Issue 1 , January 1974 , pp. 3 - 15
Copyright
Copyright © Society for American Archaeology 1974

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