Modeling Identity-Based Conflict and Genocide - An Approach Informed by Complexity Theory and Computational Social Science

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Von Briesen, E. (2020). Modeling Identity-Based Conflict and Genocide - An Approach Informed by Complexity Theory and Computational Social Science. Unc Charlotte Electronic Theses And Dissertations.
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Abstract

This research designs the Eris model, a novel, agent-based computational model that can aid researchers in answering questions regarding the explanation and prediction of identity-based conflict and genocide. At its most fundamental level, this work draws on complexity theory and research from the domain of computational social science in order to determine the most effective approach. Recent models of civil violence and violence around the issue of identity have taken advantage of advances in computing power to model both theoretical and highly realistic scenarios, validating on real-world events in some cases, and providing ``artificial worlds'' in which to perform scenario analysis. The Eris model implements a novel combination of micro-level social psychology theories of behavior and motivation, and macro-level political science theories of the causes of genocide. While a highly generalized model, Eris can be calibrated to match high-level conditions in different scenarios, contributing to the field by achieving empirical validation across cases.

Details
Author

von Briesen, Elizabeth

Title

Modeling Identity-Based Conflict and Genocide - An Approach Informed by Complexity Theory and Computational Social Science

Physical Description

1 online resource (182 pages) : PDF

Date

2020

Degree Granting Institution

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Abstract

This research designs the Eris model, a novel, agent-based computational model that can aid researchers in answering questions regarding the explanation and prediction of identity-based conflict and genocide. At its most fundamental level, this work draws on complexity theory and research from the domain of computational social science in order to determine the most effective approach. Recent models of civil violence and violence around the issue of identity have taken advantage of advances in computing power to model both theoretical and highly realistic scenarios, validating on real-world events in some cases, and providing ``artificial worlds'' in which to perform scenario analysis. The Eris model implements a novel combination of micro-level social psychology theories of behavior and motivation, and macro-level political science theories of the causes of genocide. While a highly generalized model, Eris can be calibrated to match high-level conditions in different scenarios, contributing to the field by achieving empirical validation across cases.

Genre

doctoral dissertations

Subjects--Topics

Computer science

Degree

Ph.D.

Keywords

Agent-Based Modeling
Complexity
Computational Social Science
Genocide

Subject Area

Computer Science

Advisor(s)

Hadzikadic, Mirsad
Shaikh, Samira

Committee Members

Cox, John
Canevello, Amy
Shin, Min
Rand, William

Degree Note

Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2020.

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Rights Holder Information

Copyright is held by the author unless otherwise indicated.

Identifier

vonBriesen_uncc_0694D_12557

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.13093/etd:2181