Analysis of Similarities Using Cluster Analysis : An Application of Political Views

Abstract: The objective of this paper is to study cluster analysis to identify similarities. To enhance the accuracy of the analysis, two clustering methodologies were employed. The first approach involved Hierarchical clustering, which utilized three distinct distance metrics (Euclidean, Manhattan and Gower) and three different linkage methods (single, average and complete).\:The second approach was conducting a non-hierarchical clustering method, namely the K-prototypes method. The findings indicated that at least three clusters where naturally occuring in the data set. Specifically, cluster one consisted of Stockholm, Uppsala, Södermanland, and Gävleborg, cluster two included Gotland, and the remaining counties formed cluster three.