Sociophysics Approach to Epidemics

This book provides a framework for modeling and analyzing the spread of infectious diseases during pandemics, using evolutionary game theory and a variant of the "vaccination game." It discusses recent applications of the extended concept of the vaccination game to evaluate provisions other than vaccination, such as mask-wearing, quarantine, preemptive vaccination, and optimal subsidy policies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 289 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the realm of evolutionary game theory, offering a powerful framework for modeling and analyzing the spread of infectious diseases during pandemics, particularly in the aftermath of the global COVID-19 crisis. Its primary objective is to provide a robust tool to understand and predict the dynamics of human behavior in response to such crises, encompassing both the mathematical epidemiological aspects and the intricate decision-making processes.

The book employs a variant of the "vaccination game," a mathematical epidemiological model seamlessly integrated with evolutionary game theory. This innovative approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of the complex interplay between individuals, their choices, and the spread of disease. From a social physics perspective, the book introduces an extended concept of the vaccination game, encompassing fundamental issues and exploring cutting-edge practical applications.

The book begins by providing a solid foundation in evolutionary game theory, introducing key concepts such as the 2 × 2 game, a two-player and two-strategy game, and a multi-player game. It emphasizes the importance of quantifying social dilemmas, a fundamental aspect of understanding human behavior in complex situations.

Subsequently, the book delves into various recent applications of the extended concept of the vaccination game. It examines the quantitative evaluation of provisions beyond vaccination, including practical intermediate protective measures like mask-wearing, the effectiveness of quarantine compared to isolation policies for suppressing epidemics, the efficiency of preemptive versus late vaccination, and the design of optimal subsidy policies for vaccination.

By employing a multidisciplinary approach, this book offers valuable insights into the dynamics of infectious disease spread, human behavior, and the development of effective strategies for pandemic response. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals seeking to understand and mitigate the impact of infectious diseases in our society.

Weight: 474g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789813364837
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021