Factor Analysis: a Pseudo-Solution

Abstract

Factor analysis is often regarded as being the general solution to measure and quantify multifaceted terms, like development. The article questions this standpoint and argues for more theoretical debate about methods and methodology with examining the factor analysis more thoroughly. The first half of the paper deals with the problems of abstraction in using the method (dimensions, variables, factors and its associations) and dissects the practices of mapping, writing about the world and creating order. In the second half contradictions between a spatial fetishist and a spatial nihilist argumentation throughout the usage of the method, as well as special issues of geographical scales are shown. The article uses theoretical- philosophical literature to open up the black box of the factor analysis and brings questionable examples from the Hungarian literature of the past decades.