Modeling Social Change with Cellular Automata

In this paper we will rst discuss computer simulations of social processes as models of qualitative understanding. In the second part of the paper we will present the cellular automata model of dynamic social impact (Nowak et al. 1990) and its applications in the areas of the formation of public opinion and social change as an example of a model of qualitative understanding. As computer simulations are becoming increasingly popular tools in the social sciences their popularity generates a mixed reaction among social scientists. Advocates of computer simulations often write about advantages of the simulation approach. The arguments of the opponents of computer simulations are mainly formulated verbally during discussions following presentations of simulation models. Proponents of simulations view them as a powerful tool that will transform social sciences by bringing precision and rigor, into social theories (see for example Meadows et al. 19822