Empirical hyperbolic distributions (Bradford-Zipf-Mandelbrot) for bibliometric description and prediction

Purpose – Aims to build on the work of Buckland and Hindle regarding statistical distribution as applied to the field of bibliometrics, particularly the use of empirical laws. Design/methodology/approach – Gives examples of hyperbolic distributions that have a bearing on the bibliometric application, and discusses the characteristics of hyperbolic distributions and the Bradford distribution. Findings – Hyperbolic distributions are the inevitable result of combinatorial necessity and a tendency to short-term rational behaviour. Originality/value – Supports Bradford’s conclusion from his law, i.e. that to know about one’s speciality, one must go outside it.

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