Statistics

Definition: Statistics in archaeology has a long and checkered history. As scientific practice gets better and better, we accumulate more and more information. The more information you have, the harder it is to see the big picture without some help; statistics were invented (at least in archaeology) to assist in the recognition of patterns we can't otherwise see. Early and important practitioners include Albert Spaulding and David L. Clarke. It's a good thing that computers have become more and more powerful over the years, because the data are becoming more and more complex.

This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.

Also Known As: Quantitative methods