Realistic Social Networks in Agent-Based Modeling

This paper explores the importance of accurate social network connections in agent-based modeling and simulations. It examines the current state of social network datasets, discusses the building steps necessary to create an accurate and realistic social network representation, and showcases an example of one such network. Finally, it uses an agent-based model of a multi-modal transportation system to compare agent behavior under two different networks, highlighting the importance of social network structure. This structure proves critical in simulations where agents' decisions depend on social interactions, directly impacting the effectiveness of policy interventions.