Simulating the Soft Power Effect in Two-Dimensional Models of A. Lotka – V. Volterra

Abstract

The most famous models of A. Lotka and V. Volterra, “predator-prey” and “competition,” are considered in relation to social systems. The peculiarity of the social systems that distinguishes them from the biological ones is a quick reaction to the current situation. It turns out that the straightforward struggle of preys against predators is ineffective, whereas the methods of “soft power” are able to get rid of the predators completely. The article considers the competition equations as mathematical model of cross-cultural interaction. The study of the model reveals the possibility of a paradoxical situation when one of the cultures positively treats the other, though this other one is actually harmful to it. Soft power, in this case, masks a negative attitude, presenting it as a friendly one. Conversely, in some cases, a harmless culture may be mistakenly perceived as a very negative one because of the “brutality” of some of its manifestations.