Simulation: The anatomj&amp;apos; of a fad

Powell, C.A.

Simulation studies in all areas are considered to be somewhat of a fad. Substantial reconstruction of a root and branch nature are required, especially with respect to simulations which utilize a model-controlled environment for experimental purposes. It is suggested that validity criteria for model construction have been characterized by a pervasive error in the concern for ’isomorphic’ realism, which reproduced in sophisticated model form the simplism and cognitive rigidity of the war game umpire. Even as this error has been gradually recognized and partially corrected, the basic orientation and concern for environmental model aspects has remained and continues to divert interest away from the micro-political nexus. The author’s own suggestion, the Prisoner’s Dilemma Simulation, is an attempt to focus upon this core element in the larger system and to develop a technique for complex experimental research into conflict behavior. The author suggests that simulation can be seen in...Show moreSimulation studies in all areas are considered to be somewhat of a fad. Substantial reconstruction of a root and branch nature are required, especially with respect to simulations which utilize a model-controlled environment for experimental purposes. It is suggested that validity criteria for model construction have been characterized by a pervasive error in the concern for ’isomorphic’ realism, which reproduced in sophisticated model form the simplism and cognitive rigidity of the war game umpire. Even as this error has been gradually recognized and partially corrected, the basic orientation and concern for environmental model aspects has remained and continues to divert interest away from the micro-political nexus. The author’s own suggestion, the Prisoner’s Dilemma Simulation, is an attempt to focus upon this core element in the larger system and to develop a technique for complex experimental research into conflict behavior. The author suggests that simulation can be seen in four ways: 1 As a means of macro-political analysis: in which the output is new research directions, i.e., ’the next most plausible model.’ It is a means of summarizing research and getting on with the business of further research instead of leaving locked rooms packed with data to be analyzed ’some day’. 2 Educationally: here one wants to ’tell how it is’ and make people aware of it in a way that sells history. 3 Complex experimentation: in which theories can be generated which are valid at least for some people, and which may therefore have an improved survival rate when tested in the real world. 4 As a fad: which can be used effectively for a while to get money from people who have not yet been told that it is passé until the next fad comes alongShow less

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Simulation: The anatomj' of a fad