NCJ Number
88435
Date Published
1981
Length
44 pages
Annotation
Multidimensional scaling (MDS) comprises a family of geometric models for multidimensional representation of data and a corresponding set of methods for fitting such models to actual data. It includes nonspatial and nondistance models that apply to nonproximities data as well as to proximities. This paper imposes a taxonomy on the MDS field.
Abstract
It updates and generalizes Coombs's (1964) 'A Theory of Data.' However, in contrast to Coombs, this paper attempts separate taxonomies of data and of models, whereas Coombs argued that data cannot be classified independently of the model to which those data are referred. The discussion covers one-mode two-way data, two-mode two-way data, two-mode three-way data, three-mode three-way data, and higher-way data. It considers data collection and related issues, new areas of usage for MDS, and textbook aids to users. Equations and about 490 references are included.