Minimum intelligent neural device: A tool for social simulation

A simple but effective neural network algorithm illustrates common principles of this new class of computational tools. Designed for use in a range of simulation studies, this minimum intelligent neural device is capable of learning which of a complex set of stimuli to avoid, and large numbers of these devices can be assembled in programs to explore the development of prejudice and of various interaction strategies. Neural nets are error-reduction algorithms with the potential to perform a wide range of useful tasks, including modeling theories of the social consequences of human error.