The widespread use of factor analysis in social research requires a detailed
review of epistemological and methodological aspects of its use. This is the
only way to overcome ?usual manner? of understanding factor analysis as a
statistical method. In methodological terms, it is necessary to provide not
only theoretical definition of the basic concepts and theoretical assumptions
related to use of factor analysis, but also adequate operational definition.
The importance of these theoretical prerequisites is being shown through two
types of factor analysis: exploratory vs. confirmatory factor analysis. In
addion, this paper gives particular attention to fulfill the basic
epistemological principles. In this paper an example of the use of
confirmatory factor analysis will be given. This will be done by carrying out
a confirmatory factor analysis on data from a study in the field of value
orientation. This type of factor analysis is used with the intention of
revealing and understanding latent constructs. In the context of value
orientation analysis, the concepts of authoritarian collectivism and
patriarchalism will ilustrate the concept of latent dimensions.
Value Orientation Analysis on the Educational Philosophy of Tao Xingzhi
