Classification, Research

Cluster Analysis

Cluster Analysis. A cluster analysis is also a quantitative method of classification. This term originated in psychology, where the related term of pattern analysis is also used (see Bailey, 1974). Although cluster techniques predate computerization with some being developed in the 1930s or earlier (Bailey, 1974), most are now computerized. The terms numerical taxonomy and cluster analysis are thus not mutually exclusive, but are in fact virtually synonymous. There could be some psychologists or others who would not wish to designate their clustering methods as numerical taxonomy, but most techniques of numerical taxonomy can be identified as clustering algorithms.

• Bailey, 1994

• Numerical Taxonomy (Dictionary Entry) Synonym

• Taxonomy (Dictionary Entry) Related Term