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851-0585-07L 3 Credits DS D-GESS

Selected Challenges in the Social Sciences: Modeling and Simulation Approaches 2

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Dirk Helbing
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:28:36

Abstract

This colloquium presents a collection of typical challenges addressed in the social sciences(e.g. interactive decision making, group dynamics, social networks, and strategic cooperation).A particular focus is laid on mathematical modeling and computer simulation approaches. The speakers are internationally well-known experts in the field.

Objective

After this colloquium, participants should be able to reproduce and explain concepts, models and theories used in the social sciences to explain mechanisms and consequences of, for example, (1) interactive decision making, (2) group dynamics, (3) social networks, (4) crowd behavior, (5) segregation, and (6) social cooperation and self-organization.

Content

This colloquium will present a collection of typical challenges addressed in the social sciences. However, beyond providing a general background and conceptual framework, the colloquium is trying to give an overview over the current stage of modeling and simulation in the social sciences. Some typical problems addressed in this colloquium are mechanisms and consequences of (1) interactive decision making, (2) group dynamics, (3) social networks, (4) crowd behavior, (5) segregation, (6) social cooperation and self-organization.

Resources

Lecture Notes

For some lectures, preprints or reprints are downloadable from the colloquium webpage (requiring a username and password).Moreover, pdf or Powerpoint files of the presentations will be made downloadable, if provided by the speakers.

Literature

References will be presented in the individual colloquium talks by the speakers themselves. Complementary literature can be found via scholar.google.com and via ETH Zurich's library services.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DS

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Depending on the number of exam candidates, a written exam (90min, if more than 5 candidates) or individual oral exams (30min each, if less than 6 candidates) will be offered (not optional). In exceptional cases, a seminar thesis (simulation study) will be considered alternatively.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
colloquium Selected Challenges in the Social Sciences: Modeling and Simulation Approaches 2
  • Tue 17:15-19:00 (LFW C 1)
2 h weekly

Offered In