Simplicity and reality in computational modeling of politics

Claudio Cioffi-Revilla ()
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Claudio Cioffi-Revilla: George Mason University

Computational and Mathematical Organization Theory, 2009, vol. 15, issue 1, No 6, 26-46

Abstract: Abstract Modeling a polity based on viable scientific concepts and theoretical understanding has been a challenge in computational social science and social simulation in general and political science in particular. This paper presents a computational model of a polity (political system) in progressive versions from simple to more realistic. The model, called SimPol to highlight the fundamental structures and processes of politics in a generic society, is developed using the combined methodologies of object-based modeling (OOM), the Unified Modeling Language (UML), and the methodology of Lakatos’ research programs. SimPol demonstrates that computational models of entire political systems are methodologically feasible and scientifically viable; they can also build on and progress beyond previous theory and research to advance our understanding of how polities operate across a variety of domains (simple vs. complex) and levels of analysis (local, national, international). Both simple and realistic models are necessary, for theoretical and empirical purposes, respectively.

Keywords: Political science; Comparative political systems; Policy process; Systems of governance; Agent-based modeling; UML unified modeling language; Lakatos (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2009
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DOI: 10.1007/s10588-008-9042-2

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