Computational and Mathematical Modeling in the Social Sciences

Scott de Marchi author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Cambridge University Press

Published:15th Aug '05

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Computational and Mathematical Modeling in the Social Sciences cover

Offers an overview of mathematical modeling concentrating on game theory, statistics and computational modeling.

It provides an overview and a critique of mathematical modeling in the social sciences. It covers the three major traditions: game theory, statistics, and computational modeling. Because there are genuine problems with the state of current research, a new framework for conducting research that integrates the three traditions is proposed.Mathematical models in the social sciences have become increasingly sophisticated and widespread in the last decade. This period has also seen many critiques, most lamenting the sacrifices incurred in pursuit of mathematical rigor. If, as critics argue, our ability to understand the world has not improved during the mathematization of the social sciences, we might want to adopt a different paradigm. This book examines the three main fields of mathematical modeling - game theory, statistics, and computational methods - and proposes a new framework for modeling. Unlike previous treatments which view each field separately, the treatment provides a framework that spans and incorporates the different methodological approaches. The goal is to arrive at a new vision of modeling that allows researchers to solve more complex problems in the social sciences. Additionally, a special emphasis is placed upon the role of computational modeling in the social sciences.

' … we have in this slim volume, full of good ideas, deep insights and practical advice for how to do sound methodological work and how not to do it. Given these strengths, this book should earn a cultish following among graduate students who possess a methodological bent.' Public Choice

ISBN: 9780521853620

Dimensions: 236mm x 157mm x 17mm

Weight: 425g

220 pages