Cross-Validation of Gaming Simulation and Multi-Agent Simulation

Abstract

For the study of complex social processes, both gaming simulation and multi-agent simulation have been proposed as research methods. The combination of gaming and multi-agent simulation has proved useful for the formulation of theories underlying trade network processes. However, validation remains a problematic issue in that type of research. Two important sources of difficulties are the sensitivity of gaming simulations to the participants’ cultural background and the complexity of the agent model. The sensitivity to culture may be managed by incorporating it in the agent model. The complexity of the agent model may be managed by compositional process modeling. However, both solutions require additional validation. This chapter proposes a validation approach for a culturally adaptive, composed, process model.