American Social Science Trends in Software Programs :

SMITH Herman W.

doi:10.11218/ojjams.5.115

American social scientists increasingly are writing and employing PC-based software to aid the development of social theories. This paper reviews several state-of-the-art software programs to demonstrate the current direction toward which American computer oriented social science theory is aimed. The first, INTERACT, uses mathematical equations to make predictions based on Affect Control Theory concerning changes in emotions and roles. Then I present two expert systems based on the more traditional codification of knowledge. The first, PLACECON, is an experimental consulting system for placement of child welfare cases. The second, EX-SAMPLE, aids survey researchers routinize the decision-making process involved in statistical sampling. Typical expert systems rarely impress true experts. ETHNO, a boolean-based program with extremely wide applicability is helpful in systematizing the analysis of social interaction. It aids the qualitative researcher explicate necessary and sufficient conditions underlying the structure or dynamics of any chain of events or objects. The final example, SOAR, overcomes one of the greatest obstacles in all of the above programs. SOAR has the ability to deal with problems that arise when none of the program-built in rules apply and when many rules compete for application. In essence, it points the way for innovative ways to build and explore theory in ways not possible with more traditional computer programs.

American Social Science Trends in Software Programs :

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