Simulating Sects Software

In October, 2004, I presented an evaluation of the Stark-Finke-Bainbridge-Iannaccone rational-choice model of sectarian behavior at the annual meeting of the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion.

The evaluation was based on a computer model of the aggregate effects of individual religious choices. In the trade, this is known as a "Schelling model" -- based on the demonstration by Thomas Schelling that the aggregate result of individuals' behavior often fails to match those individuals' intentions.

Click HERE to see a copy of the paper

I wrote a computer program that embodies the individual choices that Rodney Stark and his colleagues argue form the basis of religious behavior.

Click HERE to download the software (Windows only -- 326K)

Programmers are welcome to examine the program's source code (Delphi/Pascal):

Click HERE to download the Source Code (58K Zip File)

-- Jim Spickard

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Last modified: 02/16/07