The checkerboard model of social interaction

The checkerboard model is a computer simulation of social interaction among members of two groups. The checkerboard represents a social field on which two groups of checkers move on the board on the basis of positive, neutral or negative attitudes toward one another assigned to them. The resulting pattern of positions of the pieces represents the social structure. The theoretical basis for the checkerboard model is explained and the rules for operating the model are outlined. This is followed by illustrative runs named Crossroads, Mutual Suspicion, Segregation, Social Climber, Social Worker, Boy‐Girl, Couples and Husband‐Wives, showing intermediate and final positions on the board for each. It is concluded that the checkerboard model is capable of demonstrating the intimate connection between attitudes of group members toward their own group and toward others to a continuous social interactional process and to the resulting social structure.

Notes

This study is partially supported by National Institutes of Mental Health Grant MH‐08177–05, Computer Utilization for Behavioral Sciences. The help of the following in making runs of the model and in writing computer programs for the model is gratefully acknowledged: Paul J. Woods, Leslie Hyman, James Bruce, Robert Munck, Elliot Perlman. The most recent program was written by William J. Sakoda. Those interested in a listing of the FORTRAN program written for the IBM 1130 should write to the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Brown University, Providence, R.I. 02912.