Agent-based Modelling: A New Way of Exploring Social Phenomena

Abstract

Agent-based modelling is a new research method that allows the
complexity, emergency and nonlinearity of many social processes to be
managed in a simple way. In this paper we define agent-based modelling
—and its different classes— on the basis of a classic example: the
Schelling model of urban segregation, which seeks to explain how it is
possible that ghettos can arise in cities where citizens have no racial
prejudices. Finally, some of its possible applications are considered:
developing, formalising and assessing sociological theories; deciding
amongst rival theories about the same social phenomenon; integrating
different theories in a common setting; explaining social dynamics
through their micro-mechanisms; carrying out experiments in a virtual
world; assessing social policies and their a priori results; and predicting
certain social phenomena.