Statistics for Anthropology

Anthropology as a discipline is rapidly becoming more quantitative, and anthropology students are now required to develop sophisticated statistical skills. This book provides students of anthropology with a clear, step-by-step guide to univariate statistical methods, demystifying the aspects that are often seen as difficult or impenetrable. Explaining the central role of statistical methods in anthropology and using only anthropological examples, the book provides a solid footing in statistical techniques. Beginning with basic descriptive statistics, this new edition also covers more advanced methods such as analyses of frequencies and variance, simple and multiple regression analysis with dummy and continuous variables. It addresses commonly encountered problems such as small samples and non-normality. Each statistical technique is accompanied by clearly worked examples and the chapters end with practice problem sets. Many of the datasets are available for download at www.cambridge.org/9780521147088.

• All mathematical calculations are clearly explained and exemplified twice, guiding students through the concepts and easing any anxiety associated with mathematics
• Uses only anthropological examples, providing a valuable resource for anthropology students who are used to consulting coursebooks written for psychology or other fields
• Includes a chapter devoted to non-parametric statistics, guiding anthropology students who frequently have to work with small sample sizes