Statistical analysis, while at first glance an objective way to extract insights from data, remains at its core a human endeavor. Elements of subjectivity are introduced by the many decisions that... Show moreStatistical analysis, while at first glance an objective way to extract insights from data, remains at its core a human endeavor. Elements of subjectivity are introduced by the many decisions that go into the selection of a statistical method. Such subjectivity may harm the evidentiary value of results from statistical analyses. Standardization of statistical methods decreases the degrees of freedom available to researchers and may thus be seen as a way to increase the objectivity of the analysis. Here, we argue that standardization of methods is not only impossible because statistical methods rely on assumptions that need to be considered on a case-by-case basis but also undesirable because it may block innovation. We propose that the entheseal changes field is better served by standardization of reporting and discuss how reporting guidelines may be developed based on examples from biostatistics. Show less
In this introduction to the special issue, Adaptive Tools for Resilient Bones: Biostatistical Approaches to Past Physical Activity in Osteoarchaeology, we discuss the outcome of the workshop held... Show moreIn this introduction to the special issue, Adaptive Tools for Resilient Bones: Biostatistical Approaches to Past Physical Activity in Osteoarchaeology, we discuss the outcome of the workshop held in Leiden (the Netherlands; November 18–19, 2021). We review statistical approaches to entheseal changes and present a series of new contributions to this field. These research, commentary, and review articles present different statistical approaches to entheseal changes and reflect the current state of research in the field. Show less
