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?
- Are abstract models anything more than
stories reflecting our own biases and assumptions?
- What constitutes “validation” of “Schelling
/ Axelrod type” models?
- How do modellers avoid charges of scientism
or naturalistic fallacy?
- 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.
- Are existing models relevant for explaining
the rise of the “new nationalisms” and / or extreme
ethno-cultural identity politics?
- 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?
- How can social modellers navigate the
political and ethical dimensions of their work in a principled
way?