Agent-based modeling and simulation of patronage networks. An analysis of the structure and dynamics of political clientelism with SocLab

LEONARDO G. RODRÍGUEZ ZOYA; JULIO LEÓNIDAS AGUIRRE

Ibagué

Congreso; WOSC - World Organization of Systems and Cybernetics - (Computer Modelling, Power, and the Management of Complexity); 2014

University of Ibagué

This paper seeks to critically explore the potentialities and limits on agent-based modeling and social simulation for the study of complex political phenomenon. By understanding political phenomenon as a complex, dynamic, non-linear, and self-organized system, our goal is to help articulate Political Science and Complex Systems Science. This paper presents the main findings of an agent-based modeling simulation on political clientelism. The model was developed by the operationalization of a theoretical model of patronage networks via Soc Lab platform. The paper is structured in three parts: First we present the theoretical model of patronage networks. Second we present an introduction to agent-based modeling in the social sciences. Finally we explain the Soc Lab platform and present the model developed for the study of political clientelism.