An Agent-Based Model of Mobs Using Theoretical Constructs of Collective Action

Agent-based modeling (ABM) is a powerful research tool that is used in a plethora of fields. A mob is an event where a group of individuals get together online and/or offline to conduct a seemingly random act. We posit that a mob can be simulated using ABM and the constructs of the collective action theory, which is defined as all activities of common or shared interest among two or more individuals. In this research, we build an ABM using NetLogo, that can simulate a mob. Building an ABM model of the mob based on a social science theory serves as a new method to study the mob and understand the behavior of its participants. These participants form cyber-social groups on social media that act collectively (sometimes their acts lead to violence or societal conflicts). Understanding the mob phenomenon will lead to understanding similar collective action-based phenomena, e.g., organized violent protests.