The Cluster Analysis: Application, Interpretation and Validation

Abstract

The cluster analysis, together with the Principal Components Analysis constitutes an interesting method for Sociology from what we call the dense description perspective. Its application it is more productive when used as a complement to Principal Components Analysis. The article describes the process and the design of its realization, without mentioning the mathematical aspects. Then, it goes to deal with the preparations of the method, the procedures and the selection criteria of the number of clusters and their different means of validation. The emphasis on validation is originated in its feature of being responsive to the variations in its reparations and the group selection criteria, althoug it is a productive method.