ABSTRACT
Computer simulation can be seen as either an alternative to experimental research for evaluating and correcting scientific theories or simply an-other way of stating them (Latané, 1996a). Indeed, computer programs are quickly replacing mathematical modeling as a way of working out the consequences of theoretical ideas in domains characterized by complexity and nonlinear dynamics (Casti, 1994). In this chapter, we present a case history of how simulation data and empirical data can creatively inform each other in develop-
We thank Wim Liebrand for programming an earlier version of CAPSIM and for contributing a number of ideas that were instrumental in the development of the research presented in this chapter. We also thank Matthew Rockloff for programming the final version of CAPSIM, and Helen Hartón for comments on an earlier version of this paper.
