Methodological Issues on Agent-Based Models in the Social Sciences, by  Juliette Rouchier (CNRS, France)

 
Abstract:


 
In this session, we will go through methodological issues. For a start, I will give examples on how to use simulations, how to interpret (and avoid to over-interpret) results that can be obtained.  For this, I will use simple models from the netLogo library. Then, I  will describe the ODD protocol to understand which knowledge  (extracted from social science disciplines, usually) has to be included into the model. The question that the model wants to address is at the centre of this section. Eventually, I will discuss use of  models that can be observed, mainly as joint research with other  methodology.
 
Readings:
 
Volker Grimm et al. (2006), A standard protocol for describing  individual-based and agent-based models, in Ecological Modelling, 198,115-126, downloadable at: http://www.bio.uib.no/modelling/papers/Grimm_2006_A_standard_protocol.pdf

 
Vriend (2000) An illustration of the essential difference between individual and social learning, and its consequences for computational analyses, in Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, 24, 1-19, downloadable at: http://ideas.repec.org/a/eee/dyncon/v24y2000i1p1-19.html
 
Janssen M. and TK Ahn (2006) Learning, signaling and social preferences in a public good game, in Ecology and Society, 11, 2, downloadable at:  www.ecologyandsociety.org/vol11/iss2/art21/ES-2006-1752.pdf

 
Becu N., Neef  A., Schreinemachers P. et Sangkapitux C. (2008) Participatory computer simulation to support collective decision-making: Potential and limits of stakeholder involvement, in Land Use Policy, 25(4): 498-509,  linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0264837707000877