If you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with: How individual habituation of agent interactions improves global utility

Simple distributed strategies that modify the behaviour of selfish individuals in a manner that enhances cooperation or global efficiency have proved difficult to identify. We consider a network of selfish agents who each optimise their individual utilities by coordinating (or anti-coordinating) with their neighbours, to maximise the pay-offs from randomly weighted pair-wise games. In general, agents will opt for the behaviour that is the best compromise (for them) of the many conflicting constraints created by their neighbours, but the attractors of the system as a whole will not maximise total utility. We then consider agents that act as 'creatures of habit' by increasing their preference to coordinate (anti-coordinate) with whichever neighbours they are coordinated (anti-coordinated) with at the present moment. These preferences change slowly while the system is repeatedly perturbed such that it settles to many different local attractors. We find that under these conditions, with each perturbation there is a progressively higher chance of the system settling to a configuration with high total utility. Eventually, only one attractor remains, and that attractor is very likely to maximise (or almost maximise) global utility. This counterintutitve result can be understood using theory from computational neuroscience; we show that this simple form of habituation is equivalent to Hebbian learning, and the improved optimisation of global utility that is observed results from wellknown generalisation capabilities of associative memory acting at the network scale. This causes the system of selfish agents, each acting individually but habitually, to collectively identify configurations that maximise total utility

Individual and global adaptation in networks

The structure of complex biological and socio-economic networks affects the selective pressures or behavioural incentives of components in that network, and reflexively, the evolution/behaviour of individuals in those networks changes the structure of such networks over time. Such ‘adaptive networks’ underlie how gene-regulation networks evolve, how ecological networks self-organise, and how networks of strategic agents co-create social organisations. Although such domains are different in the details, they can each be characterised as networks of self-interested agents where agents alter network connections in the direction that increases their individual utility. Recent work shows that such dynamics are equivalent to associative learning, well-understood in the context of neural networks. Associative learning in neural substrates is the result of mandated learning rules (e.g. Hebbian learning), but in networks of autonomous agents ‘associative induction’ occurs as a result of local individual incentives to alter connections. Using results from a number of recent studies, here we review the theoretical principles that can be transferred between disciplines as a result of this isomorphism, and the implications for the organisation of genetic, social and ecological networks

The Web as an Adaptive Network: Coevolution of Web Behavior and Web Structure

Much is known about the complex network structure of the Web, and about behavioral dynamics on the Web. A number of studies address how behaviors on the Web are affected by different network topologies, whilst others address how the behavior of users on the Web alters network topology. These represent complementary directions of influence, but they are generally not combined within any one study. In network science, the study of the coupled interaction between topology and behavior, or state-topology coevolution, is known as 'adaptive networks', and is a rapidly developing area of research. In this paper, we review the case for considering the Web as an adaptive network and several examples of state-topology coevolution on the Web. We also review some abstract results from recent literature in adaptive networks and discuss their implications for Web Science. We conclude that adaptive networks provide a formal framework for characterizing processes acting 'on' and 'of' the Web, and offers potential for identifying general organizing principles that seem otherwise illusive in Web Scienc

Reflections on the Complexity of Ancient Social Heterarchies: Toward New Models of Social Self-Organization in Pre-Hispanic Colombia

All political systems have limitations in their information processing and action capacities to face large-scale crises and challenges, but especially if they happen to be too hierarchically and centrally controlled systems. In contrast, some other cultures whose political structure is heterarchically organized, such as the Zenú, the Muiscas, and the Tayronas in pre-Hispanic Colombia, presented adaptiveness even without advanced scientific knowledge and without powerful centralized top-down control. We therefore propose that creating and analyzing computer models of their decentralized processes of management could provide a broader perspective on the possibilities of self-organized political systems. Our hope is that this approach will eventually go beyond the scope of basic science. It seeks to promote more computer-model-based research of social systems that exhibit an adaptive balance of flexibility and robustness, i.e., systems that do not rely on the current ideal of rule-based control of all systemic aspects, with the practical aim of improving current social and political processes

The Artisan Teacher: A Field Guide to Skillful Teaching

A capstone submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education in the College of Education at Morehead State University by Michael A. Rutherford on March 26, 2013

An Exploration of Relocation Decision-making and Experience: Wellbeing and Chronic Stress Outcomes for Older Under- Occupying Homeowners

This largely qualitative research used thematic analysis and some contextual quantitative data to supplement qualitative findings. It explored the decisions, experience and efficacy of 39 female homeowners, living alone in or near London, around downsizing to retirement housing. The focus was on wellbeing and chronic stress for participants who moved or did not. The timespan was: (1) ‘decision-making’ five months before the move, (2) just after moving, (3) ‘settling-in’ five months later. ‘Mover’ and ‘Non Mover’ cohorts were in two age groups 60-75; 76 and over. Structured interviews explored person-environment fit, quality of life, support networks and personal views and characteristics at Times (2) and (3) together with hair samples, for hair cortisol concentration (HCC) analysis of chronic stress. Depression, anxiety and stress measures were also taken retrospectively for Time (1). Two from each cohort had semi-structured interviews at Time (3). There were three ‘Overarching Themes’ and thirteen sub themes. Impediments and motivators to move were reported as either functional (practical) matters or ‘meaningful’ (emotional) matters, which had more influence for those disinclined to move. The inclination to move was dependent upon lifetime characteristics, beliefs, experience and self–efficacy, not age per se. Older Movers struggled with cognitive aspects and pressure to move from family, which was uncomfortably high in the research. Role diminishment within the community or family, and levels of autonomy, affected desire to move, the acceptance of help and time taken to settle-in. HCC results for chronic stress were interpreted using contextualised biographical material. This qualitative approach was essential in revealing individual delayed reactivity and different lengths/levels of response, depending on perception of ‘stressors’. Future research, policy and practice have been recommended, using richer than previous relocation research, for this growing social group

A mixed method study of a gratitude diary intervention on tinnitus-related distress in adults

Background: Tinnitus is a persistent condition which constitutes a challenging and life-changing experience for which there is no medical cure. There is wide-spread consensus that individuals’ interpretation of tinnitus affects how distressing they find it. Research suggests individuals with greater levels of dispositional gratitude are less distressed by tinnitus. However, there is no published research examining whether an experimental manipulation of gratitude reduces tinnitus-related distress. Method: A mixed method design was adopted to evaluate the application and experience of a 3-week gratitude diary intervention in adults with distressing tinnitus. Measures were collected pre- and post-intervention. Primary outcome measures were tinnitus-related distress (Tinnitus Questionnaire) and psychological wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale). Outcomes were evaluated using paired t-tests and correlational analysis. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants’ experience of the intervention and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Finally, quantitative and qualitative results were integrated to develop mixed methods inferences. Results: Fifteen participants completed the intervention and analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in tinnitus-related distress but no change in psychological wellbeing. Correlational analysis found a strong negative relationship between tinnitus duration and tinnitus-related distress, suggesting those who had tinnitus for longer received less benefit. In addition, thematic analysis identified three themes capturing participants (N = 6) broadening awareness, feeling empowered, and changing relationship with tinnitus. Conclusion: Findings suggest that a gratitude diary intervention is an acceptable intervention to reduce tinnitus-related distress in adults. Participants reported a changing relationship with tinnitus as greater awareness of the blessings in their lives seemed to have reduced their preoccupation with tinnitus. However, further research is required to compare the intervention against an active control condition and examine its utility in clinical samples

Calibrating the moral compass: an Aristotelian virtue ethics approach to British soldiers moral agency during complex expeditionary operations

As the British Army departs from conventional warfare, it must prepare for the complex challenges of the future operational environment that will exist between peace and war. As a battle-hardened and experienced Infantry moves towards a more diverse and complex operational environment, the British Army's professional and moral credibility depends on soldiers' ability to think and act with reference to right and wrong at the ambiguous and highly scrutinised intersection of tactical and strategic direction. This insider research employs a phenomenological research approach to examine British Infantry soldiers’ self perceptions about lethal and crucial non-lethal decisions within the framework of the Afghanistan conflict. The most significant empirical finding is that Infantry soldiers were divided into experienced soldiers who relied on their own judgement to make lethal decisions in consideration of both short- and long-term risks to themselves, their comrades, and local people (who may or may not have been enemy combatants) and inexperienced soldiers who relied on a rules-based approach lacking the flexibility provided by experience. Secondly, during the decision-making process, experience was distilled through the application of the virtues of compassion and practical wisdom. Respect for others and selfless commitment were visible in the actions of the soldiers in this study, which suggests that two of the British Army's key values were embodied in the concept of moral agency for the soldiers in this study. This study contends that Aristotelian virtue ethics provides resources for cultivating practical wisdom and compassion that can endure not just the situational pressures and constraints of complicated expeditionary operations, but also the daily ethical dilemmas inherent in the narrative unity of life

Post-surgical cliff after weight loss surgery: Accounts of patients and their health care professionals

Background: Little is known about the psychological effects on life after weight loss surgery. Results from the systematic review above showed some persisting disordered psychosocial quality of life and wellbeing in longer term follow up periods in participants after the procedure when compared to control groups. This highlighted potential need for psychological intervention post-surgery and further research to provide more data on long term psychosocial impact of weight loss surgery. Even clearer was the lack of patient perspective on their experience and needs after having the surgery. Generating qualitative post-surgery data is vital as it gives health professionals detailed information on whether patients feel psychological care is needed after surgical obesity treatment and, if so, specifically what kind of care. Therefore, the study aims were; 1) to explore patients’ experiences of life after weight loss surgery, discussing perceived benefits and limitations of the procedure, and realisation of patients’ expectations AND 2) compare patients’ experiences with the views of health professionals involved in surgery and ongoing care to examine concordance between the cohorts. Methods: Ten individuals who had had weight loss surgery between 2 to 6 years ago and eight health professionals were recruited within an NHS bariatric surgery service through purposeful sampling and individually interviewed by the researcher. The semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Patients reported drastic weight loss and improvements in a range of co-morbidities in the first year that coincided with better psychological and social function. However, long term experiential narratives revealed postsurgical cliffs in patient care, highlighting a need for psychological aftercare to support patients through physical and psychological changes. Specifically, issues of excess skin, acceptance of non-obese self and perceived prejudice following drastic weight loss were highlighted. Discussion: Overall, it would seem that weight loss surgery is a great catalyst for weight loss in those suffering from severe obesity. However, this tool needs to go hand in hand with psychological support post-surgery to aid long term optimal results. In relation to health psychology, suggestions for theoretical application and health interventions to facilitate patients through postoperative adjustments after surgery are outlined as well as recommendations for better service provision

A CRITICAL REVIEW OF CURRENT APPROACHES AND PRACTICES IN COMPUTING ETHICS EDUCATION

Recent scandals caused by the results of negligent, malicious, or shortsighted software development practices highlight the need for software developers to consider the ethical implications of their work. Computing ethics has historically been a marginalized area within computing disciplines, so educators in these disciplines do not have a common background for teaching the topic. Computing ethics education, although often a required part of coursework, can vary widely in the method of implementation from university to university. In this report I summarize the insights I gained from interviewing four educators from three different institutions on their pedagogical approaches to computing ethics. I found there to be a few terms that had very different contextual meanings for the different educators. Case study and group discussion in particular are two terms with a diversity of purposes, methods of use, and literal meanings among the interviewees. I summarize three different methods of extending engineering ethics education beyond one ethics course. I review software tools designed to assist with ethical reflection or to encourage thoughtful discussion, and I make an argument for which elements of those tools seemed to assist in thoughtful consideration and discussion. Finally, I propose a sketch of an ethically sensitive software design, and consider the implications of applying software to ethical reflection. I conclude with some areas for future study that could benefit the development of a software intervention for ethics, as well as the field of ethics education in general