A Computational Theory of Endogenous Norm Change: The NormSim Agent-Based Model in MASON

The current study presents the NormSim Agent-Based Model in MASON. NormSimconducts a computational analysis of the International Relations theory of constructivism.NormSim explores the metastable dynamics of norms through the interactions ofheterogeneous agents embedded within a complex social system. The goal is to explainhow the social complexity of international relations generates metastability. The use ofABM and the MASON simulation toolkit make it possible to explore this process from aformal experimental perspective. This is advantageous for constructivist research thattypically must rely on qualitative analysis alone to justify complex theoreticalassumptions. NormSim demonstrates the use of ABM to test the logical consistency ofconstructivist claims. It also extends constructivist logic to better understand whyinternational norms lead to complex conformity patterns and long run systemic change.NormSim provides a general computational theory to explain this phenomenon.