Agent-based computational sociology

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.

Preface ix 1 What is agent-based computational sociology all about? 1 1.1 Predecessors and fathers 3 1.2 The main ideas of agent-based computational sociology 9 1.2.1 The primacy of models 9 1.2.2 The generative approach 11 1.2. 3 The micro-macro link 13 1.2.4 Process and change 15 1.2.5 The unexcluded middle 16 1.2.6 Trans-disciplinarity 17 1.3 What are ABMs? 18 1.4 A classification of ABM use in social research 20 References 26 2 Cooperation, coordination and social norms 33 2.1 Direct reciprocity and the persistence of interaction 36 2.2 Strong reciprocity and social sanctions 42 2.3 Disproportionate prior exposure 49 2.4 Partner selection 54 2.5 Reputation 62 2. 6 The emergence of conventions 69 References 78 3 Social influence 85 3.1 Segregation dynamics 88 3.2 Threshold behavior and opinions 97 3.3 Culture dynamics and diversity 103 3.4 Social reflexivity 109 References 122 4 The methodology 131 4.1 The method 134 4.2 Replication 140 4.2.1 The querelle about segregation 144

Introduction -- What is agent-based computational sociology all about?. Cooperation, coordination, and social norms -- Social influence -- The methodology -- Conclusions -- Appendix -- References -- Index.