The purpose of this article is to introduce multi-agent modelling as an area of research that has developed rapidly in sociology over the last fifteen years. This article starts by outlining some characteristics of multi-agent modelling and then covers the history of sociological component of complexity science. In the following part, the fundamental concepts used in multi-agent modelling such as model, agent, environment and emergence are defined. Thereafter, the article focuses on the application of multi-agent modelling in sociology and identifies specific areas where it might be used productively. An illustrative example of a multi-agent model called ‘Slumulation’ that explores how slums emerge in the city is described. Finally, the advantages and limits of this approach are summarized.
The purpose of this article is to introduce multi-agent modelling as an area of research that has developed rapidly in sociology over the last fifteen years. This article starts by outlining some characteristics of multi-agent modelling and then covers the history of sociological component of complexity science. In the following part, the fundamental concepts used in multi-agent modelling such as model, agent, environment and emergence are defined. Thereafter, the article focuses on the application of multi-agent modelling in sociology and identifies specific areas where it might be used productively. An illustrative example of a multi-agent model called ‘Slumulation’ that explores how slums emerge in the city is described. Finally, the advantages and limits of this approach are summarized., Anna Krčková., and Obsahuje bibliografii