Department of Computer Science Colloquium Series 2023-2024
Title: Exploring the Relationship Between Ecological Sustainability and Political Ideology Through Game-based Simulation
Presented By: David Whittinghill, PhD
When: Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Where: RB353
Abstract: The role of energy transference in ecosystems is well understood and mature models exist to describe it. The role humans have in shaping, for good and ill, the flow of energy through an ecosystem cannot be understated. Despite centuries of accumulated knowledge of the natural world, human societies nonetheless function in defiance of natural laws, to our collective peril. In this talk, I discuss the development of a game-based ecological and political simulation that requires players to create an environmentally sustainable society to win. Within this “city builder” style game, players consult AI-driven political advisors who attempt to convince them their political ideology is the correct one, and to enact environmental policy accordingly. In a game world built upon natural laws, players use trial, error, and adaptation to understand these laws and evaluate their advisors’ and their own confirmation biases. It is hoped that by applying practical outcome-oriented solutions in-game, players will learn to evaluate ideology more judiciously in the future.
Bio: Dr. David Whittinghill is an Associate Professor of Computer Graphics Technology and Computer and Information Technology at Purdue University. Dr. Whittinghill' s research focuses on gaming, virtual reality, simulation and computer programming education and how these technologies can more effectively address outstanding issues in education, health, and society at large.
Dr. Whittinghill has lead projects in foreign language education, pediatric physical therapy, sustainable energy simulation, phobia treatment, cancer care simulation, and games as a tool for improving educational outcomes. Dr. Whittinghill is the director of the Games Innovation Laboratory and Fledgling Media.
Dr. Whittinghill leads teams of student researchers and developers using the most current technologies and methodologies used in the AAA games industry. He worked with Volition Games as a programmer and trainer for the 2022 reboot of Saints Row.
Prior to joining Purdue he was a senior software engineer in the research industry working in the fields of visualization, games, agent-based modeling, digital anti-tampering, robotics, pharmaceuticals, and web development. His primary expertise is in computer programming.
Light refreshments will be served