Structural equation modeling and natural systems / James B. Grace

Incluye bibliografía: páginas 350-360 e índice: páginas 61-365

Preface.. Acknowledgments.. PART I A BEGINNING.. 1 Introduction.. 2 An example model with observed variables.. PART II BASIC PRINCIPLES OF STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING.. 3 The anatomy of models I: observed variable models.. 4 The anatomy of models II: latent variables.. 5 Principles of estimation and model assessment.. PART III ADVANCED TOPICS.. 6 Composite variables and their uses.. 7 Additional techniques for complex situations.. PART IV APPLICATIONS AND ILLUSTRATIONS.. 8 Model evaluation in practice.. 9 Multivariate experiments.. 10 The systematic use of SEM: an example.. 11 Cautions and recommendations.. PART V THE IMPLICATIONS OF STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING FOR THE STUDY OF NATURAL SYSTEMS.. 12 How can SEM contribute to scientific advancement?.. 13 Frontiers in the application of SEM.. Appendix I Example analyses.. References.. Index

This book presents an introduction to the methodology of structural equation modeling, illustrates its use, and goes on to argue that it has revolutionary implications for the study of natural systems. A major theme of this book is that we have, up to this point, attempted to study systems primarily using methods (such as the univariate model) that were designed only for considering individual processes. Understanding systems requires the capacity to examine simultaneous influences and responses. Structural equation modeling (SEM) has such capabilities. It also possesses many other traits that add strength to its utility as a means of making scientific progress. In light of the capabilities of SEM, it can be argued that much of ecological theory is currently locked in an immature state that impairs its relevance. It is further argued that the principles of SEM are capable of leading to the development and evaluation of multivariate theories of the sort vitally needed for the conservation of natural systems. eng