My main research program at the moment is the Human Exploitation Dynamics (HED) Research Program. The goal of the HED Research Program is to gain a better understanding of the dynamics of exploitation within human groups. More specifically, this program seeks to determine what conditions lead to the emergence of different levels and types of exploitation.
As part of this program, Ken Webb and I are currently working on the Islands Game, which will allow us to explore the dynamics of exploitation by having people interact in a simulated environment. To create the Islands Game, we’re using Ken’s Xholon modeling framework, which has allowed us to very quickly setup a multi-player simulation with physically realistic parameters.
Ken and I are documenting the research project via blogging – links to blog entries can be found here:
Learning About E-Games
Figuring Out Exploitation
The Xholon Project
Declarative and Imperative Models – Some Precursor Thoughts
Some Further Thoughts on the Utility of Computer Models
The Conceptual System Modelling Framework