THE IMPORTANCE OF MATHEMATICAL SOCIOLOGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AS A SCIENCE
Keywords:
Mathematical Sociology, Game Theory, social networks analysis, mathematical modelsAbstract
The goal of this thesis is to indicate the significance and importance of the Mathematical Sociology on the evolvement of Sociology as a science, by reviewing the most important scientific fields of Mathematical Sociology. For this reason, in the introductory part, the history of this sociological discipline is pointed out, as well as the most significant fields derived from the co-optation between Mathematics and Sociology. As the authors point out, the most fruitful achievements of the abovementioned cooperation are evident in the Game Theory and the analysis of social networks. Due to this, after the introductory part, the authors present basic ideas of Game Theory, and, afterwards, the modelling of social processes and social structures. In each of the mentioned areas of Mathematical Sociology, what is given is the critical approach to its current application on Sociology. The final part of the work is dedicated to the advantages and disadvantages of Mathematical Sociology, along with the obstacles in its broader affirmation in contemporary Sociology.
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