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Abstract:
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As in any problem of quantification, the concepts, definitions and classifications used play a central role in determining both the measurement task and the results obtained. However, in the study, discussion, and debate about large-scale human rights abuses these issues are often largely ignored. Major conceptual and definitional issues arising include the precise specification of the crimes or other phenomena involved, and the population groups, geographic areas, and time periods covered. Lack of clarity about any one of these issues can seriously hamper reliable data gathering and the discussion and understanding of genocide and related mortality. The paper addresses each of these issues and provides illustrative examples where errors or misunderstandings about the definitions and concepts used have interfered with the discussion and understanding of these human rights abuses.
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