Exploration of Prehistoric Settlement Networks using the Minimum Spanning Tree

Abstract:

Our aim is to study prehistoric settlement networks using the method of agent-based social simulation in NetLogo. In this paper we propose models on extending library (extension) g4ss for NetLogo. The extension supports two graph models that are applicable within NetLogo models and implements graph searching algorithms. The extension was used for searching of the minimum spanning tree in archaeological data representing positions of settlements in the landscape. The minimum spanning tree provides us an introductory idea about the probable settlement network with efficient walking routes between neighboring settlements.