“Agent-based models of social networks”

at Networks 2021 Conference - Joint Sunbelt and NetSci Conference, July 6-11, 2021 (hybrid conference, Washington, DC, USA).

Session organizers:
- Federico Bianchi, University of Milan (Italy)
- Filip Agneessens, University of Trento (Italy)
- Andreas Flache, University of Groningen (The Netherlands)
- Károly Takács, Linköping University (Sweden)

Abstract: Agent-based models (ABMs) provide a useful tool to link network dynamics to micro-level mechanisms. ABMs and social network analysis have been fruitfully interacting in the recent years. First, the network component of an ABM can be empirically calibrated, which allows modelers to move beyond the use of highly idealized network structures in an ABM of a social process of interest. Second, recent developments in statistical models of repeated network observations have opened possibilities for the use of simulations in social network research. Moreover, ABMs can be used as tools to increase the reliability of statistical analysis of network data. This session invites papers that rely on ABMs relating macro-level outcomes with social network dynamics in e.g., opinion polarization, social inequality, social conflicts, or economic collaboration. Contributions bridging theoretical ABM, empirical data, and statistical models of network-generating processes (e.g., ERGMs, SAOMs) are particularly — but not exclusively — welcomed.

Please submit your abstract (max 500 words) for a 15-minute talk.

Deadline: 24 January, 2021

Submission link: https://www.openconf.org/networks2021/openconf.php

We look forward to your submissions!