Fundamental problems associated with “eigenshape analysis” and similar “factor” analysis procedures

Recent advances in image analysis techniques have allowed rapid generation of peripheral points of two-dimensional objects. Such points, defining overall shape of an object, have been analyzed using several techniques including geometric shape analysis, Fourier analysis, and, more recently, by “eigenshape” analysis. The latter technique purports to represent a general, optimal, and universally best technique to analyze shapes of fossils. Such a technique was devised allegedly due to failure of exisiting techniques. We seriously question the validity of the eigenshape technique and discuss limitations of such an approach. Objections presented in this paper are applicable to a variety of other multivariable data reduction techniques as well.