From the publisher's description of the book:

Graph Algebra: Mathematical Modeling with a Systems Approach introduces a new modeling tool to students and researchers in the social sciences. Derived from engineering literature that uses similar techniques to map electronic circuits and physical systems, graph algebra utilizes a systems approach to modeling that offers social scientists a variety of tools that are both sophisticated and easily applied.

Key Features:

Designed for readers in the social sciences with minimal mathematical training: In this volume, the author assists readers in developing their own difference and differential equation model specifications.

Incorporates Social Theory: This book describes an easily applied language of mathematical modeling that uses boxes and arrows to develop very sophisticated algebraic statements of social and political phenomena. Graph algebra can be used to algebraically “flesh-out” even the most complicated and sophisticated of theories.

Contains social science examples of graph algebra models: Social science readers can see many examples of how graph algebra can be used to model theories from a wide variety of substantive areas and disciplines. The book also describes how to estimate such models, and two examples are fully worked out.

Explains linear and nonlinear model specifications using graph algebra from a social science perspective: Readers can move beyond simple linear regression models by using graph algebra.
This text is ideal for use in graduate courses such as Statistical Modeling, Quantitative Methods, and Applied Mathematics.

Table of Contents

1. Systems Analysis
   Structure and Function
   An Overview of the Substantive Examples Found in Subsequent Chapters
2. Graph Algebra Basics
   Inputs, Outputs, and the Forward Path
   Feedback Loops and Mason’s Rule
   An Example from Economics: The Keynesian Multiplier
3. Graph Algebra and Discrete-Time Linear Operators
   Delay and Advance Operators for Discrete Time
   Including an Additive Constant with Graph Algebra
   Difference and Summation Operators for Discrete Time
   A Note Regarding Additive Constants
   An Estimated Example: Labor Union Membership
4. Working with Systems of Equations
   Richardson’s Arms Race Model Using Graph Algebra
   Variations of Richardson’s Arms Race Model
   An Estimated Example of a Multiple Equation System with Nonlinear or Embedded Parameters: Richardson’s Arms Race
5. Applying Graph Algebra to Continuous Time
   Using Graph Algebra with Continuous-Time Operators
6. Graph Algebra and Nonlinearity
   Nonlinear Filters
   The Logistic Function
   Delays and Instability
   Placement Rules for Operators in Nonlinear Models
   Graph Algebra and Chaos
   Forced Oscillators
7. Working with Conditional Paths
   Logical and Decision Systems
   An Example of Democratic Transition
   An Evolutionary Example
8. Systems, Shocks, and Stochasticity
9. Graph Algebra and Social Theory
   Systems and Equilibria
   References
   Index
   About the Author