A dynamic MSM with agent elements for spatial demographic forecasting

Publication type

Journal Article

Authors

Publication date

June 1, 2011

Abstract:

Individual-based models such as microsimulation models (MSMs) provide an alternative to macroscopic models in social simulation and modeling. In contrast to the traditional models where individual characteristics are often blurred or even disregarded, MSM provides the realistic disaggregated information that is often vital for modern policy problems. MSM has been extensively applied and well tested in social modeling. However, it has been criticized for being less strong in modeling interactions between individuals and individual behaviors. MSM also struggles where realistic micro data are not available. Agent-based models (ABMs) can model the demographic process through interactions between the agents and with the environment that they live in. The combination of MSM and ABM provides a new approach to enhance complex social modeling. In our study, we attempt to provide better groundwork to facilitate policy and decision making for the U.K. population through a hybrid model that combines the strength of the two complementary techniques.

Published in

Social Science Computer Review

Volume

Volume: 29 (1):145-160

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0894439310370113

Subjects

Link

- https://serlib0.essex.ac.uk/record=b1656799~S5

Notes

SAGE alert

Albert Sloman Library Periodicals *restricted to Univ. Essex registered users*

#514073

News

Latest findings, new research

Publications search

Search all research by subject and author

Podcasts

Researchers discuss their findings and what they mean for society

Projects

Background and context, methods and data, aims and outputs

Events

Conferences, seminars and workshops

Survey methodology

Specialist research, practice and study

Taking the long view

ISER's annual report

Themes

Key research themes and areas of interest