arXiv subjects

Stephen A. Collins-Elliott

Publications and source records attributed to Stephen A. Collins-Elliott.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2019

Quantifying Artifacts over Time: Interval Estimation of a Poisson Distribution using the Jeffreys Prior

This article presents a new method for estimating the amount of an artifact class in use at a given moment in the past from a random assemblage of archaeological finds. This method is based on the use of simulation, since an analytical solution is computationally impractical. Estimating the number of artifacts in use at any time $t$ is shown to follow a Poisson distribution, which allows for credible intervals to be established using the Jeffreys prior. This estimator works from minimal assumptions about the dating and duration of finds, as well as the intensity of collection, and is applied to coinage from four Roman-period sites excavated by the Roman Peasant Project (2009-2014). The result provides for an estimation of the abundance of material according to an interval of certainty.

stat.AP↗

arXiv2017

Bayesian inference with Monte Carlo approximation: Measuring regional differentiation in ceramic and glass vessel assemblages in Republican Italy, ca. 200 BCE - 20 CE

Methods of measuring differentiation in archaeological assemblages have long been based on attribute-level analyses of assemblages. This paper considers a method of comparing assemblages as probability distributions via the Hellinger distance, as calculated through a Dirichlet-categorical model of inference using Monte Carlo methods of approximation. This method has application within practice-theory traditions of archaeology, an approach which seeks to measure and associate different factors that comprise the habitus of society. It is implemented here focusing on the question of regional food consumption habits in Republican Italy in the last two centuries BCE, toward informing a perspective on mass social change.

stat.AP↗