Assessing Nonlinear Behaviors in an Agent-Based Model

Abstract

This chapter discusses the role of sensitivity analysis in the development of an Agent-Based Model (ABM) designed to explore hypothetical scenarios relating to cultural transmission in small-scale societies. Sensitivity analysis revealed disproportionate or nonlinear relationships between parameter changes and model behaviors. Nonlinear sensitivity may indicate underlying problems in programming or model design; however, it may also reveal unanticipated results that shed light on the research questions explored in a simulation. Interpretations relating to cultural transmission and the sociospatial structure of small-scale societies are discussed.