2nd Edition

Bayesian Hierarchical Models With Applications Using R, Second Edition

By Peter D. Congdon Copyright 2020
    592 Pages 70 B/W Illustrations
    by Chapman & Hall

    592 Pages 70 B/W Illustrations
    by Chapman & Hall

    592 Pages 70 B/W Illustrations
    by Chapman & Hall

    An intermediate-level treatment of Bayesian hierarchical models and their applications, this book demonstrates the advantages of a Bayesian approach to data sets involving inferences for collections of related units or variables, and in methods where parameters can be treated as random collections. Through illustrative data analysis and attention to statistical computing, this book facilitates practical implementation of Bayesian hierarchical methods.





    The new edition is a revision of the book Applied Bayesian Hierarchical Methods. It maintains a focus on applied modelling and data analysis, but now using entirely R-based Bayesian computing options. It has been updated with a new chapter on regression for causal effects, and one on computing options and strategies. This latter chapter is particularly important, due to recent advances in Bayesian computing and estimation, including the development of rjags and rstan. It also features updates throughout with new examples.





    The examples exploit and illustrate the broader advantages of the R computing environment, while allowing readers to explore alternative likelihood assumptions, regression structures, and assumptions on prior densities.





    Features:







    • Provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of applied Bayesian hierarchical modelling






    • Includes many real data examples to illustrate different modelling topics






    • R code (based on rjags, jagsUI, R2OpenBUGS, and rstan) is integrated into the book, emphasizing implementation






    • Software options and coding principles are introduced in new chapter on computing






    • Programs and data sets available on the book’s website




    Contents



    Preface



    1. Bayesian Methods for Complex Data: Estimation and Inference



    2. Bayesian Analysis Options in R, and Coding for BUGS, JAGS, and Stan



    3. Model Fit, Comparison, and Checking



    4. Borrowing Strength via Hierarchical Estimation



    5. Time Structured Priors



    6. Representing Spatial Dependence



    7. Regression Techniques Using Hierarchical Priors



    8. Bayesian Multilevel Models



    9. Factor Analysis, Structural Equation Models, and Multivariate Priors



    10. Hierarchical Models for Longitudinal Data



    11. Survival and Event History Models



    12. Hierarchical Methods for Nonlinear and Quantile Regression




     

    Biography

    Peter Congdon is Research Professor in Quantitative Geography and Health Statistics at Queen Mary, University of London.

    "...The material covered in the almost 600 pages is broad, rich, and presented in a dense and conciseway. There is a notable emphasis on longitudinal models, spatial applications as well as structural equations models, which seems natural given the focus on hierarchicalmodels...The readership that will benefit most from the book might be statisticians with intermediateor advanced-level expertise in Bayesian statistics and at least some basic experience in the software implementation of Bayesian modeling techniques. The second edition is particularly worthwhile since it catches up with the computational developments of the last decade. Overall, the book nicely illustrates the richness and the flexibility of hierarchical modeling options within the Bayesian framework."
    - Christian Stock, Biometrical Journal, October 2020