This groundbreaking simulation is the first in a series designed to explore the crypto-economics of a post-capitalist blockchain.
Introduction
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our pioneering model, the Council-Based Economy Model. This groundbreaking simulation is the first in a series designed to explore the crypto-economics of a post-capitalist blockchain. Utilizing the Mesa framework, a preferred choice for agent-based modeling in Python, this model marks a significant step in our exploration of post-capitalist economic systems. Here, we delve into the features and capabilities of version 0.01 of this model.
What the Model Does
The Council-Based Economy Model simulates a decentralized economic system composed of two primary agents: Workers Councils and Consumers Councils. These agents interact within a virtual environment, adjusting their production and consumption plans based on predefined rules and random adjustments. The model's core objective is to explore how these councils may achieve equilibrium between supply (workers) and demand (consumers) in a simulated simple economy without price signals, a central planning authority, or an iteration board.
How to Use It
Using the model is straightforward. Users can adjust various parameters, such as the number of Worker and Consumer Councils and the degree of adjustment in proposals. The model visualizes these interactions through a dynamic grid and charts, allowing users to observe the evolving dynamics between the councils.
Simulations You Can Run
The model offers a range of simulations, including varying the numbers of Worker and Consumer Councils, adjusting their proposal flexibility, and observing how these changes affect the equilibrium between supply and demand. Users can experiment with different scenarios to see how they impact the model's economy. For example, if a flood takes a portion of workers’ councils “offline.”
Initial Simulation Findings
Our initial simulations suggest intriguing assumptions. Where Consumer Proposals will initially exceed Worker Proposals:
- Consumers are likely to have higher expectations of Social Costs and Benefits compared to Worker Proposals.
- A greater number of Consumer Councils compared to Worker Councils is expected at the outset.
Takeaways from these simulations include:
- The need for iterations to drive towards a supply-demand equilibrium between Worker and Consumer Councils.
- A potential necessity for Consumers to adjust their initial Social Cost and Benefit Expectations downwards.
- Pressure on Workers Councils to meet consumer demand, raising questions about incentivizing more Worker Councils or reducing Consumer Councils.
Caveats
It's important to note that:
- These models, while insightful, cannot perfectly mimic real life but do highlight critical issues.
- Further simulations are essential for understanding dynamics, especially in the face of environmental crises or other impactful factors.
Upcoming Version 0.02
Version 0.02, set to release this month, promises enhancements:
- Multiple methods to achieve equilibrium between worker and consumer council supply and demand.
- Enhanced capabilities for adjusting council strategies.
- Future developments will include statistical analysis, summaries for community feedback, and insights for new models.
- Tutorials for users.
Running the Model
Requirements
- Python 3.x
- mesa Python package
Installation
To install the model:
- Clone the repository.
- Install the required Mesa package.
- Follow the detailed installation instructions in the repository's README.
This model invites users to experiment and gain insights into the dynamics of a council-based economy, paving the way for further exploration and understanding of alternative economic systems.
Related resources to explore:
- Simple Council-Based Economy Model Repository
- Technical release notes for v0.01
- Empowering a Participatory Economy with Blockchain and AI
- Revisiting Workers’ Councils and the Economics of a Self-Managed Society
- A Post-Capitalist Cryptoeconomics
