The Nolan Index: An R Program for Calculating List Resemblances

Abstract

The Nolan Index (NI) is a normed, quantitative measure for comparing the degree of resemblance (similarity or dissimilarity) between free listings with an Excel program for calculating it. This article enhances that effort with the addition of an R program and additional applications. Free-list resemblance measures have been used to investigate and compare historical and cultural connections, ecological relationships, cultural item utilities, practices, knowledge, and values both within and between various groups. Their utility for cultural domain analysis and the theory of cognitive cultural models is also considered.