Simulated Society (or SimSoc- which is pronounced sim-sock) is a "game" used by universities and other groups to teach various aspects of sociology, political science, and communications skills. Originally created by William A. Gamson in 1966, it is currently in its fifth edition. It provides a way for participants to better understand the problems of governing society. The participants grapple with issues like economic inequality, justice, diversity, trust, power dynamics and leadership as they negotiate their way through labor-management strife, political turmoil, and natural disasters. To be successful, players must utilizes every basic social process from cooperation and reward to threat and punishment. SIMSOC brings everyday experiences and deeper understanding to social and organizational theory.
