La simulation à l'épreuve du lien social

Abstract

Large-scale Real -Time simulations are accepted as the preferred method for the vadation of Air Traffic Control systems. They are generally accepted as valid representations of the real world. Controllers participating in such simulations are considered to be both objective evaluators and representative participants. But real-time Simulation cannot be considered as a mechanical process. This social anthropological study (by the immersion method) suggests that the success or failure of a simulation may depend on social issues unknown to, or ignored by, simulation staff, illustrating this from experience of three contrasting simulations (Marseille, Mercure and Zoé). Simulation is not in itself an obstacle to, nor a substitute for the social aspect, but only a « tool « to demonstrate and structure an already existing social aspect. There is no one way or one right way to do simulation, but many ways which refer to different aspects of reality, a universe of distinct values and different attitudes in different institution. The third simulation (Mercure) shows that the question of the representativeness of the sample or of the reproductibility of real-time are essentially side issues and not insurmontable obstacles. The essential part is the attention we give to the real living part of human experience, its emotional and sociohistorical aspect. In the fields of activity where simulation is used, this emotional aspect is more important as the risks are greater. Simulation can involve the operational participants, if the fundamental aspect of social and emotional relations is considered from the start. Risk and fear are central features, which can not be excluded without making the situation unreal, however faithfully the traffic data are reproduced. In other word, it is vital not to separate, contrast or isolate the technical argument from its social and emotional context. This is not simply a matter of taking account of « context « as something peripheral or secondary, or to talk of humanity as a factor, but recognising and accepting the impossibility of separating technical from social and political aspects.