Local modelling: one size does not fit all

Abstract

This editorial piece considers what happens when we abandon the concept that models of social processes have global application in favor of a local approach in which context or the influence of 'place' has an important role. A brief history of this local approach to statistical modelling is given, followed by a consideration of its ramifications for understanding societal issues. The piece concludes with futures challenges and prospects in this area.

Keywords

• local modelling
• spatial context
• process nonstationarity