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Identity Crisis: Simulations and Models

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  • John Simpson

    (University of Alberta, Canada)

Abstract

This is an investigation of the relationship between simulations and models, concluding that the model intended to underlie a simulation and the model that actually underlies the simulation can be quite different. It is also argued that simulations and models are complexes of representational relations, making it the case that determining what is a model or what is a simulation is an inherently observer relative task that can never be fully overcome. The end result is that simulations can still be profitably used as scientific tools, but that caution must be used in interpreting their results; and we must be reluctant to make hard and fast judgments regarding what counts as a simulation or model and how any results obtained should be used.

Suggested Citation

  • John Simpson, 2011. "Identity Crisis: Simulations and Models," Simulation & Gaming, , vol. 42(2), pages 195-211, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:simgam:v:42:y:2011:i:2:p:195-211
    DOI: 10.1177/1046878109334007
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Joshua M. Epstein & Robert L. Axtell, 1996. "Growing Artificial Societies: Social Science from the Bottom Up," MIT Press Books, The MIT Press, edition 1, volume 1, number 0262550253, December.
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