17 June 2016
Abstract
Design and policy decisions for many socio-technical systems involve determining the connectivity structure that maximizes the utility of individual agents or that of the system as a whole. To do this, we need to develop theoretical and computational frameworks for deciding about connectivity structure in Heterogeneous Complex Networked Systems (HCNS). The talk will give an overview of our research efforts on three tracks, related to this topic: The first track is Establishing methods to determine efficient and stable structures for HCNS using analytical solutions based on strategic network formation methods, for low heterogeneity systems, as well as Agent-Based Modeling and Simulation, for arbitrary levels of heterogeneity. The other track is determining common structural characteristics of these networks as a function of systems heterogeneity, with a special emphasis on network modularity, demonstrated by our research as the key system-level parameter that varies with overall heterogeneity. Finally, we will look at the structural parameters that affect the overall behavior system through collective norms, by focusing on emergence of cooperation, coordination and trust as a function of network structure.
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
Schlossplatz 1, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria
Phone: (+43 2236) 807 0 Fax:(+43 2236) 71 313