Structural Equation Modeling: Applications in Ecological and Evolutionary Biology

by Edited by Bruce H. Pugesek , Adrian Tomer , Alexander von Eye

• ISBN13: 9780521104029
• ISBN10: 0521104025
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2009-03-19
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

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. Supplementary information can be found at the authors website,http://www.jamesbgrace.com/. - Details why multivariate analyses should be used to study ecological systems - Exposes unappreciated weakness in many current popular analyses - Emphasises the future methodological developments needed to advance our understanding of ecological systems

Table of Contents

Theory

Structural equation modelling: an introduction

Concepts of structural equation modelling in biological research

Modelling a complex conceptual theory of population change in the Shiras moose: history and recasting as a structural equation model

A short history of structural equation models

Guidelines for the implementation and publication of structural equation models

Applications

Modelling intra-individual variability and change in bio-behavioural developmental processes

Examining the relationship between environmental variables and ordination axes using latent variables and structural equation modelling

From biological hypotheses to structural equation models: the imperfection of causal translation

Analysing dynamic systems: a comparison of structural equation modelling and system dynamics modelling

Estimating analysis of variance models as structural equation models

Comparing groups using structural equations

Modelling means in latent variable models of natural selection

Modeling manifest variables in longitudinal designs - a two-stage approach

Computing

A comparison of the SEM software packages Amos, EQS and LISREL

Index

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.