46

This article has a general goal: it provides an overview of the main theoretical and methodological dimensions structuring the field of research that is based on agent-based modelling and simulation. It also has a more specific aim, namely to help the reader better understand the contributions in the special issue the Revue Française de Sociologie is devoting to this method. To meet both requirements, the article addresses the following points: 1) the originality of agent-based modelling and simulation; 2) the kind of explanation facilitated by this method; 3) the method’s computational root; 4) its flexibility in dealing with the “micro–macro transition” problem; 5) the link that can be established between agent-based modelling and empirical data; 6) the criticisms this method usually receives.