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Statistical dynamic models of social systems: Discontinuity and conflict
Author(s) -
Bowers R. G.
Publication year - 1978
Publication title -
behavioral science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.371
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1099-1743
pISSN - 0005-7940
DOI - 10.1002/bs.3830230208
Subject(s) - discontinuity (linguistics) , computer science , context (archaeology) , social system , phenomenon , mathematics , epistemology , artificial intelligence , mathematical analysis , paleontology , philosophy , biology
This paper is devoted to the study of discontinuity and conflict in the behavior of social systems. The discussion is not ad hoc but relates to a basic mathematical theory of social behavior. Since two levels of analysis are possible and discontinuity and conflict at the macrolevel seem to be related to the existence of certain interactions at the micro level, one clearly needs a theory which connects these levels. A statistical dynamic theory is adopted. Advantages result from working within a general systems context. Basic ideas about discontinuity and conflict are introduced and the possibility of a statistical dynamic investigation is established. Some important results on the statistical dynamic modeling of social systems are summarized. A particular type of social system in which discontinuity and conflict can occur is examined. In this system a population consisting of a large number of interacting individuals can be polarized by a struggle for popular support between two parties or other entities. A statistical dynamic model of such a system is established and a particular case is discussed. Various properties of the model are derived exactly and the occurrence of discontinuity and conflict is discussed.