Models
Computational Models
In addition to methodological work about models and modeling, my research group has developed several computational models to investigate topics in ecology, sociology, and philosophy. Several are described below and can be investigated and run on your browser by clicking on the links, stay tuned for more.
Predation & The Volterra Principle
This is an individual-based, density-dependent predator prey model that allows the user to “spray” a general biocide (yellow) on to random patches in the landscape. Predators are black, prey white, patches of food (“grass”) for the prey are green.
“The Robust Volterra Principle” (with Ken Reisman)
A first attempt to model the division of cognitive labor using an agent-based model. Scientists following the control, maverick, or follower strategies move around the landscape trying to discover approaches yielding the truths of greatest significance.
“Epistemic Landscapes and the Division of Cognitive Labor” (with Ryan Muldoon)
Segregation That No One Seeks
Schelling’s famous model of segregation showed that neighborhoods can become massively segregated even if agents only have a preference for a few like neighbors. In this model, agents prefer to be in the minority. We demonstrate that as long as agents care about the characteristics of their wider community, they tend to end up in a segregated state.
“Segregation That No One Seeks” (with Ryan Muldoon & Tony Smith)
