Agent-Oriented Simulation

Abstract

Metaphors play a key role in computer science and engineering. Agents bring the notion of locality of information (as in object-oriented programming) together with locality of intent or purpose. The relation between multi-agent and simulation systems is multi-facetted. Simulation systems are used to evaluate software agents in virtual dynamic environments. Agents become part of the model design, if autonomous entities in general, and human or social actors in particular shall be modeled. A couple of research projects shall illuminate some of these facets.