Using consensus analysis as a discovery and a verification procedure for cultural models.

Abstract

In this work, I propose that consensus analysis (CA) can play two roles within research conducted by adopting cultural model theory (CMT). First, I briefly introduce the major tenets of CMT and illustrate the mixed methodology (both qualitative and quantitative) it entails. Then, I follow with a short introduction about CA and suggest how it can play both a discovery and a verification role within the methodological path introduced. Finally, I present an illustrative example of a research project about the Cultural Model of Nature in Tonga, Polynesia, which used CA in both roles suggested.