Social Simulations for Exploring Society, Economy and Land Use in the Iron Age: Method and Examples

Authored by Alzbeta Danielisova, Kamila Stekerova

Date Published: 2015

Sponsors: No sponsors listed

Platforms: NetLogo

Model Documentation: Other Narrative Flow charts Mathematical description

Model Code URLs: Model code not found

Abstract

The aim of the article is to present the method of social simulation and agent-based modelling in archaeology, a methodological approach not extensively employed thus far in Czech research. The authors explain the applicability of computer-constructed social simulation on archaeological data and theoretical questions of current research (e.g. the expansion of settlement, interaction, economic and subsistence issues, demographic development, etc.). The first part of the work summarises the related theories of social simulation and agent-based modelling, which are presented as methods applicable in archaeological research. The process of the creation and use of the model is then explained step by step, including information on currently discussed methodological questions. The second part of the article presents several case studies related to the current project focussed on the Late Iron Age in central Europe. These illustrative issues are chosen to highlight significant aspects of the use of these methodological approaches on specific archaeological data and domain knowledge, and to foster discussion on the objective advantages and disadvantages of archaeological interpretations linked to this method.

Tags

Evolution Dynamics Demography Specialization Settlement Model Protocol Constant environments Population-growth Space