Accession Number:

AD0276946

Title:

THE COMPUTER AS A TOOL FOR THEORY DEVELOPMENT

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT CORP SANTA MONICA CALIF

Personal Author(s):

• GULLAHORN,JOHN T.
• GULLAHORN,JEANNE E.

Report Date:

1962-06-05

Pagination or Media Count:

1.0

Abstract:

Research involving computer simulation not only plays the passive role of verifying and testing theory it performs active functions for the development of theory. Formulating a theory as a computer model affords one a relatively tractable representation and possibly a more meaningful conceptualization, having increased precision as a result of the clarification of concepts necessitated by the programming process. Furthermore, a unique opportunity is provided by the modern digital computers capacity to generate the programmed models dynamic implications. In a computer run investigating a theorys processes it is not unlikely that unanticipated, anomalous, and strategic data may result and become the occasion for developing a new theory or for extending the existing model. Author

Descriptors:

• *EMPLOYEE RELATIONS
• *SOCIAL COMMUNICATION
• DIGITAL COMPUTERS
• SOCIOLOGY
• SYMPOSIA
• THEORY

Subject Categories:

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE