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SCAMP's stigmergic model of social conflict
H Van Dyke Parunak1, Jason Greanya1, Peggy McCarthy2
1Parallax Advanced Research, Beavercreek, OH 45431 USA.
This study introduces SCAMP (Social Causality using Agents with Multiple Perspectives), a novel social simulator. It uses stigmergy, inspired by social insects, to model nation-state conflict, offering realistic data for social simulations.
Area of Science:
- Computational social science
- Artificial intelligence in social simulation
Background:
- Social simulators are crucial for generating realistic data in social science research.
- Existing simulators lack a mechanism inspired by natural systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce SCAMP (Social Causality using Agents with Multiple Perspectives), a novel social simulator.
- To demonstrate the application of stigmergy in modeling complex social phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Developed SCAMP based on stigmergy, a principle observed in social insects.
- Modeled nation-state conflict using a Syria-inspired scenario within SCAMP.
- Generated socially realistic data for the Ground Truth program.
Main Results:
- SCAMP successfully generated socially realistic data, distinct from other simulators.
- The stigmergy-based approach provided a unique computational principle for social modeling.
Conclusions:
- Stigmergy offers a viable computational approach for simulating social dynamics, including conflict.
- SCAMP represents a significant advancement in social simulation capabilities.
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