Introducing fuzzy cognitive maps as an artificial intelligence-based framework for conflict resolution

Abstract

Conflict is an intricate part of any systems with cooperating entities with common or differing goals. In computing systems, conflict occurs between different entities because of shared resources, and this can degrade overall system performance. In the same way, human society is plagued with challenges of resource conflicts that are difficult to analyse and resolve. Some works have used methods like graph models of conflict resolutions conflict problems and resolution while some have used optimization techniques. However, these methods often model only resolution options without components that provide for proper analysis of the conflict. Also, the various root causes of the conflict and their interaction are not incorporated in the resolution models.  This paper used Fuzzy Cognitive Maps as an AI modelling tool to provide a framework for modelling conflict problems and resolution. It provides a multi-layer system with various components of conflict model, conflict resolution, and ranking of various resolution options to get the optimal solution. Compared to other methods, it is simpler, providing a total picture of the conflict situation which is useful to analysis and provides various means of resolution for the user of the model.