Integrating Computer Prediction Methods in Social Science: A Comment on Hofman et al. (2021)

Machine learning and other computer-driven prediction models are one of the fastest growing trends in computational social science. These methods and approaches were developed in computer science and with different goals and epistemologies than those in social science. The most obvious difference be...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Breznau, N. (Author)
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: SAGE Publications Inc. 2022
Subjects:
Online Access:View Fulltext in Publisher
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245 1 0 |a Integrating Computer Prediction Methods in Social Science: A Comment on Hofman et al. (2021) 
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520 3 |a Machine learning and other computer-driven prediction models are one of the fastest growing trends in computational social science. These methods and approaches were developed in computer science and with different goals and epistemologies than those in social science. The most obvious difference being a focus on prediction versus explanation. Predictive modeling offers great potential for improving research and theory development, but its adoption poses some challenges and creates new problems. For this reason, Hofman et al. published recommendations for more effective integration of predictive modeling into social science. In this communication, I review their recommendations and expand on some additional concerns related to current practices and whether prediction can effectively serve the goals of most social scientists. Overall, I argue they provide a sound set of guidelines and a classification scheme that will serve those of us working in computational social science. © The Author(s) 2022. 
650 0 4 |a explanatory modeling 
650 0 4 |a integration of computer and social science 
650 0 4 |a machine learning 
650 0 4 |a predictive modeling 
650 0 4 |a social science epistemology 
700 1 |a Breznau, N.  |e author 
773 |t Social Science Computer Review