Abstract
Simulating Theory with Agent Analyst Track: Modeling Author(s): Elizabeth Groff Opportunity theories explain the spatiotemporal distribution of crime via the situational elements of each event. In particular, routine activity theory (Cohen and Felson, 1979) identifies four elements as necessary for a crime to occur. The routine activities of individuals have to converge in the presence of a motivated offender and a suitable target and without a capable guardian present. The theory further states that as the routine activities of individuals shift away from home, crime will increase. This paper focuses on how theory is translated into a spatially informed agent-based model using Agent Analyst and applied to test theoretical premises in an artificial society. Elizabeth Groff Institute for Law and Justice 1018 Duke Street Alexandria , VA 22314 US Phone: 7036845300 E-mail: egroff@ilj.org |