Agent-Based Computational Sociology.
Title:
Agent-Based Computational Sociology.
Author:
Squazzoni, Flaminio.
ISBN:
9781119954194
Personal Author:
Edition:
1st ed.
Physical Description:
1 online resource (258 pages)
Contents:
Agent-Based Computational Sociology -- Contents -- Preface -- 1 What is agent-based computational sociology all about? -- 1.1 Predecessors and fathers -- 1.2 The main ideas of agent-based computational sociology -- 1.2.1 The primacy of models -- 1.2.2 The generative approach -- 1.2.3 The micro-macro link -- 1.2.4 Process and change -- 1.2.5 The unexcluded middle -- 1.2.6 Trans-disciplinarity -- 1.3 What are ABMs? -- 1.4 A classification of ABM use in social research -- References -- 2 Cooperation, coordination and social norms -- 2.1 Direct reciprocity and the persistence of interaction -- 2.2 Strong reciprocity and social sanctions -- 2.3 Disproportionate prior exposure -- 2.4 Partner selection -- 2.5 Reputation -- 2.6 The emergence of conventions -- References -- 3 Social influence -- 3.1 Segregation dynamics -- 3.2 Threshold behavior and opinions -- 3.3 Culture dynamics and diversity -- 3.4 Social reflexivity -- References -- 4 The methodology -- 4.1 The method -- 4.2 Replication -- 4.2.1 The querelle about segregation -- 4.2.2 The querelle about trust and mobility -- 4.3 Multi-level empirical validation -- References -- 5 Conclusions -- References -- Appendix A -- A.1 Research centers -- A.2 Scientific associations -- A.3 Journals -- A.4 Simulation tools -- References -- Appendix B -- B.1 Example I: Partner selection and dynamic networks (Boero, Bravo and Squazzoni 2010) -- B.2 Example II: Reputation (Boero et al. 2010) -- References -- Index.
Abstract:
Most of the intriguing social phenomena of our time, such as international terrorism, social inequality, and urban ethnic segregation, are consequences of complex forms of agent interaction that are difficult to observe methodically and experimentally. This book looks at a new research stream that makes use of advanced computer simulation modelling techniques to spotlight agent interaction that allows us to explain the emergence of social patterns. It presents a method to pursue analytical sociology investigations that look at relevant social mechanisms in various empirical situations, such as markets, urban cities, and organisations. This book: Provides a comprehensive introduction to epistemological, theoretical and methodological features of agent-based modelling in sociology through various discussions and examples. Presents the pros and cons of using agent-based models in sociology. Explores agent-based models in combining quantitative and qualitative aspects, and micro- and macro levels of analysis. Looks at how to pose an agent-based research question, identifying the model building blocks, and how to validate simulation results. Features examples of agent-based models that look at crucial sociology issues. Supported by an accompanying website featuring data sets and code for the models included in the book. Agent-Based Computational Sociology is written in a common sociological language and features examples of models that look at all the traditional explanatory challenges of sociology. Researchers and graduate students involved in the field of agent-based modelling and computer simulation in areas such as social sciences, cognitive sciences and computer sciences will benefit from this book.
Local Note:
Electronic reproduction. Ann Arbor, Michigan : ProQuest Ebook Central, 2017. Available via World Wide Web. Access may be limited to ProQuest Ebook Central affiliated libraries.
Genre:
Electronic Access:
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