Social simulation

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Social simulation is the modelling, or simulation, normally performed using a computer, of social phenomena (e.g., cooperation, competition, markets, social networks dynamics, etc.).

Development tools

Many social simulations are implemented using one of the many development frameworks and tools available.

Some of the most well-known, ordered by programming language, are:

Java

• RePast
• SeSAm
• MASON
• JAS
• Swarm
• AScape

Objective-C

• Swarm

Logo

• StarLogo
• NetLogo (implemented in Java).

C++/C

• EcoLab
• LSD (Laboratory for Simulation Development)

Pascal

• Glider

POP-11

• SIM_AGENT

Other (or unknown)

• Breve
• Simile

Other development tools

In addition to the simulation-specific tools there also a number of more generic agent-oriented tools that can be used to write simulations. Some examples are:

Java

• JADE (FIPA compliant)
• Zeus
• AgentSheets

For a more comprehensive list of tools and links see:

• Simulation for the Social Scientist (links)
• Tools for Agent-Based Modelling (from the Swarm Wiki)

References

• JASSS - The Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation
• ESSA - The European Social Science Association
• JoSC - The Journal of Social Complexity
• Entry on Social Simulation in the NCeSS Wiki

External links

• Modelling Complex Socio-Technical Systems using Morphological Analysis From the Swedish Morphological Society
• Futures Studies using Morphological Analysis. For the UN University Millennium Project.