Workshop

Beyond Schelling and Axelrod: Computational Models of Ethnocentrism and Diversity, June 7th – 8th, 2017.

Panel themes and topics

Panels are a good way to stimulate discussion in a structured and open way. There are two panel slots (one at the end of each workshop day). Panel members will be given 5 mins. to state their position / opinion on the panel topics. After this, there will be moderated questions and discussion from the audience.


Panel 1. What do our models really tell us and how do we “sell” them?

Many computational models of ethnocentrism, segregation and related phenomena are highly abstracted. Often they provide an illustration of some general dynamic process. But what can such models say about the real world? More generally how can models productively be applied to policy?
  1. Are abstract models anything more than stories reflecting our own biases and assumptions?
  2. What constitutes “validation” of “Schelling / Axelrod type” models?
  3. How do modellers avoid charges of scientism or naturalistic fallacy?
  4. Is it possible to devise simulation models for policy and if so how can they be presented in a clear and plausible way?


Panel 2. The “new nationalisms” and ethical dimensions

Nationalisms appear on the rise as faith in globalisation and global institutions wanes. Also extreme ethno-cultural identity politics are emerging in new forms such as identitarianism in Europe and the Alt-Right in the US. Concepts such as ethnocentrism, racism and xenophobia are politically contentious often provoking strong reactions such as anger, fear or denial. New ideas in these areas have ethical and political implications.
  1. Are existing models relevant for explaining the rise of the “new nationalisms” and / or extreme ethno-cultural identity politics?
  2. Is something new happening related to 21st century conditions such as the networked society, identity politics and globalisation that are relevant to these phenomena? If so how can models capture it?
  3. How can social modellers navigate the political and ethical dimensions of their work in a principled way?