JavaScript toy that demonstrated a model of how demographics cluster
A while back I saw a cool link on Tildes, I think it was before the save feature was implemented, which is why I've lost it. It was an article with an accompanying JavaScript toy to demonstrate the point: if a system starts clustered, equality alone won't bring the system to equilibrium because the system has momentum. You have to swing hard in the other direction to get to actual equilibrium. (i.e. it was a defense of affirmative action.)
Basically, you set some conditions meant to represent demographics. The people were represented by little squares in the simulation. The conditions were things like "start X% concentrated" and "squares must have 2/3/4 different colored neighbor squares."
I think it was on Medium, but I'm not sure, and I can't for the life of me find it again even after scouring Tildes, Reddit, and Google. Anyone know what I'm talking about and where I can find it again?
I think you are referring to the Parable of the Polygons by Nicky Case. He's got several other good simulations that are worth looking at too when you have the time.
Yep, that's it. Can't believe how much time I wasted looking for it, I should have asked earlier.
Thanks!
I'm sure you probably already have, but definitely check out his The Evolution of Trust one too. That's my favorite one, it's a really great demonstration.