Network-Oriented Modeling

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This book introduces a novel approach for addressing complex individual and social human processes, offering an alternative to traditional strategies that rely on isolation and separation. It emphasizes network-oriented modeling, enabling the construction of high-level cognitive, affective, and social models represented as (cyclic) graphs, which can be transformed into executable simulation models. This format allows for the integration of theories and findings related to complex cognitive and social dynamics, often characterized by interrelating cycles. It effectively addresses phenomena such as the interplay of emotions within cognitive processes, internal simulations of others' mental processes, and social dynamics like shared understandings and collective actions. Various sample models demonstrate the approach's potential, covering topics such as ownership of actions, fear, dreaming, emotion integration in joint decision-making, and evolving social networks. Dedicated software supports the creation of models in both conceptual and graphical formats, facilitating their transformation into executable formats for simulation experiments. The material has been positively evaluated by students and researchers in cognitive, social, and AI fields, making it an ideal resource for graduate and undergraduate students across multidisciplinary domains, including cognitive, affective, social, biological, and neuroscience studies.