Understanding sociological phenomena through play

Humans are fascinating animals. We're a gregarious species, but with a huge ego and selfishness. We call ourselves Cartesian and free-thinking beings, and yet researchers have shown through decades of research that we are extremely easy to manipulate by emotions. As contradictory and emotional creatures, it's no wonder we spend so much time looking at ourselves on the Internet or on TV!

Explaining psychological and social phenomena is no simple matter. Of course, a sociologist or psychologist can offer an interesting insight through his or her own research and that of others. But it's all very theoretical. Those looking for something concrete could turn to other media. Games, for example, can demonstrate more complex concepts interactively.

Understanding trust, segregation, the impact of the media...

That's what developer Nicky Case is up to. A developer of humorous Flash games on the Internet since the age of 13, he has since worked on blending games, social sciences and learning. On his site, you'll find a range of fun, interactive modules on a variety of subjects. The most interesting since it has been translated into many languages including French is "L'évolution de la confiance - The Evolution of Trust " which was released in July 2017. An interactive game and demonstration of the complex process of trust. The principle is inspired by the prisoner's dilemma, but with a machine. At each end of the machine, an individual has a coin. If each person puts it down at the same time, it gives them 2 coins back. On the other hand, if one inserts his coin and the other doesn't, the one who cheated gets 3 while the other loses 1. So, here's the dilemma: should one cheat or deposit the coin and hope the other doesn't? The player will perform this experiment several times, with different characters behaving in different ways. Afterwards, the theory of trust will be explained and demonstrated with simulations that the Internet user can interact with.

Another translated game, " The Parable of the Polygons ", shows very well how individual choices that may seem harmless can have a major impact on a society. Triangles and squares live together. The latter require their neighbors to be at least a third of the same shape. The player quickly realizes that segregation is taking place. A reflex that has a similar effect on our society.

Other games are just as interesting, even if they require a knowledge of English. For example, " We become what we behold " explains how the media have an impact on our perceptions of others, by playing the role of a photographer who has to stage events that will attract an audience. Innocent images are out of the question. Sensationalism, denigration and fear are needed to attract viewers. One simulation features fireflies whose lighting is coordinated according to different factors. An interesting approach to the social question of synchronicity. We can all become "enlightened" by being inspired by others and by inspiring our neighbors.

Short, enjoyable browser experiments

Nicky Case's site also includes a reflection on the type of ballot system, neural connections in anxious people or how to think in a system. All these games and simulations are designed to be easy to use (often just a click of the mouse) and compatible with most web browsers. What's more, despite the serious information, based on research and studies often cited at the end of the game, the tone will be accessible to most Internet users and even a little humorous in some cases. These short experiments are a great way to reflect on social phenomena and the human psyche, both for personal use and in the classroom.