Destressing Math Collective with Lucy Wilson
Lucy Wilson ‘25 will give a talk titled “Exploring Voter Behavior, Turnout, and Apathy: An Agent-Based Model.” Snacks will be served starting at 6:30 pm in the Math Lounge.
Abstract: In recent decades, voter turnout in U.S. elections has fluctuated. Here we present an agent-based model (ABM) to study several factors contributing to voter apathy; specifically, we ask how voters weigh their individual demographic characteristics against their community’s political opinions to inform their likelihood to participate in an election. We examine how varying initial settings—such as party breakdown and the degree to which voters tend to communicate in echo chambers—impacts election results and voter turnout. Using sensitivity analysis, we deduce which of our input parameters have the greatest effect on turnout, as well as the extent to which the electorate is represented in the election results. Our model shows that turnout rates are tied to the level of political similarity in an agent’s surroundings, as well as the degree to which individuals are swayed to abstain or vote based on their interactions within the community. Furthermore, we find that the minority party’s level of mobilization can skew the breakdown of election results, allowing for an unexpected winner to emerge.
Bryn Mawr College welcomes the full participation of all individuals in all aspects of campus life. Should you wish to request a disability-related accommodation for this event, please contact the event sponsor/coordinator. Requests should be made as early as possible.