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Abstract

Factor analysis (principal components) with both orthogonal and ob lique rotations was applied to gamma coefficients derived from the cross-cultural data used to develop a settlement pattern scale of cul tural complexity. Varying numbers of factors were rotated, using both methods, and it was concluded that the results confirmed the systematic relationships reported earlier. However, the missing data were some what of a problem, and the analysis was repeated with estimated missing values for an augmented set of traits, using both phi and gamma coeffi cients and oblique rotation only. Phi gave a clearer picture, with the same major factors-politics, economics, and religion. In addition, a functional relationship between monogamy, bilateral kinship, and absence of slavery appeared. The other variables were essentially restricted to their own specific factors. Higher order factor analysis was then used to group the initial factors at a second and third level. [Cultural Evolution, Cross- cultural Analysis, Factor Analysis, Comparative Methodology]

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Factor Analysis of a Cross-cultural Sample

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