An introduction to agent-based modeling of human interactions using the example of social learning in group discussions

Agent-based models offer the possibility to formalize theories on human decision making and behavior, and to test the consequences of formalized hypotheses in simulations. In such simulations, the consequences of different assumptions can be tested with high numbers of runs or variations. Furthermore, situations that would not be possible to test in reality, e.g., due to learning of the subjects, costs, or ethical considerations, can be analyzed. However, such models are not common in social psychology. In my talk, I give a short introduction to agent-based modeling and present a model on social learning in group discussions. The purpose of my talk is to stimulate a discussion on the practical use of agent-based models for social psychology; and vice versa, on how social psychological theories can be of use to represent humans in models.

Dr. Geeske Scholz is a researcher at the Institute of Environmental Systems Research at Osnabrück University in Germany.