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  • © 2018

Computer Simulations of Space Societies

  • Assesses the social challenges facing colonization of the solar system and beyond
  • Gathers a stunning collection of hypotheses and innovations for academics and technology leaders
  • Offers deep insights into the hopes for the future of spaceflight held by the general public
  • Explores new dimensions of social media and human-computer interaction

Part of the book series: Space and Society (SPSO)

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Table of contents (9 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages i-vii
  2. A Virtual Launch into a Computational Cosmos

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 1-28
  3. Simulated Martian Social Science Laboratories

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 29-54
  4. The Effect of Cultural Drift on Interstellar Colonization

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 55-81
  5. Educational Simulations of the Evolution of Spaceflight

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 83-111
  6. Computer Simulation for Space-Oriented Strategic Thinking

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 113-139
  7. Interstellar Travel Across Virtual Galaxies

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 141-167
  8. Convergence of Real and Simulated Spaceflight

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 169-194
  9. A Virtual Human-Centered Galaxy

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 195-221
  10. Social Life on Distant Alien Worlds

    • William Sims Bainbridge
    Pages 223-249
  11. Back Matter

    Pages 251-254

About this book

At the intersection of astronautics, computer science, and social science, this book introduces the challenges and insights associated with computer simulation of human society in outer space, and of the dynamics of terrestrial enthusiasm for space exploration. Never before have so many dynamic representations of space-related social systems existed, some deeply analyzing the logical implications of social-scientific theories, and others open for experience by the general public as computer-generated virtual worlds. Fascinating software ranges from multi-agent artificial intelligence models of civilization, to space-oriented massively multiplayer online games, to educational programs suitable for schools or even for the world's space exploration agencies. At the present time, when actual forays by humans into space are scarce, computer simulations of space societies are an excellent way to prepare for a renaissance of exploration beyond the bounds of Earth.

Authors and Affiliations

  • Arlington, USA

    William Sims Bainbridge

About the author

William Sims Bainbridge is an experienced researcher on the history and sociology of space development and a leader in developing new computational methods of questionnaire administration and analysis, as well as a writer who knows how to communicate clearly to readers interested in spaceflight or science and technology more broadly. The author holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from Harvard University. 

Bibliographic Information

Buy it now

Buying options

eBook USD 99.00
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book USD 129.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info
Hardcover Book USD 129.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Other ways to access