Citation

Young E. J. Aust. Popul. Assoc. 1985; 2(1): 19-30.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1985, Australian Population Association)

DOI

10.1007/BF03041203

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

As this brief discussion suggests, census statistics are useful as an indicator of some socio-economic characteristics of the Aboriginal population, particularly for broad comparative purposes. However, some distinctive social features of Aboriginal society affect both the classification of data and their interpretation. These features are most easily examined through small scale, detailed studies. They are not elements appropriate either to the type of data collection or analysis carried out by censuses. A useful approach would seem to combine the two types of data, using material from detailed studies to reveal some of the reasons for broad differences highlighted by the census. This could provide an invaluable aid to interpretation.