Agent-Based Modelling and Simulation for Bridging the Micro–Macro Divide in Management Science

Abstract

Abstract In recent decades, management science has witnessed increasing interest in the reciprocal mechanisms between micro-level behaviours and macro-level patterns. At the same time, there are calls to bridge the field’s multidimensional divide in subdomains, theoretical foundations, or research methods that often address either the micro or macro level. The introductory chapter of the Handbook of Agent-based Computational Management Science outlines how the agent-based paradigm contributes to bridging the micro–macro divide in management science. For this, we build on the framework of causal mechanisms of Coleman’s boat. The dynamic variant of the framework, proposed in the philosophy of social science, allows for capturing the reciprocal connections between the micro and macro levels and translates into the agent-based paradigm and its generative approach. For the novice in agent-based modelling and simulation, we briefly outline some more ‘technical’ aspects. Finally, we provide a brief overview of the chapters in the handbook, organized into four parts as there are (1) the microfoundations of agent-based models in management, agent-based modelling and simulation for (2) theory building in management and (3) for operational issues in management, followed by some overarching, and (4) reflections and extensions.