Introduction
This project is an interactive simulation of the Stanford Prison Experiment, implemented as a web application. It provides users with a deep understanding of the psychological dynamics that emerged during the original 1971 experiment.
Overview
The Stanford Prison Experiment Simulation allows users to explore and understand the psychological effects of perceived power through an interactive interface. The simulation recreates the environment and conditions of the original experiment, using AI to generate realistic interactions between guards and prisoners.
Key Features
1. Real-Time Simulation
Dynamic day/night cycle with 4-hour updates
Interactive timeline showing experiment progression
Live interaction feed with AI-generated responses
Stress level monitoring and incident tracking
2. Role-Based Interactions
AI-powered guard responses with varying authority levels
Prisoner interactions showing psychological adaptation
Observer and psychologist insights
Dr. Zimbardo's narration of events
3. Visual Analytics
Prison layout map showing facility structure
Relationship dynamics visualization
Stress level indicators and trends
Incident tracking and analysis
4. Psychological Monitoring
Real-time stress level assessment
Behavioral pattern analysis
Incident classification and severity tracking
Relationship dynamic mapping
How It Works
Simulation Engine
The simulation runs on a sophisticated AI engine that:
Generates realistic interactions between participants
Tracks and updates stress levels
Creates and logs incidents
Analyzes behavioral patterns
Updates relationship dynamics
Time Progression
The simulation runs on a compressed timeline
Each day is divided into 4-hour segments
Events and interactions occur based on the time of day
The environment changes to reflect day/night cycles
Participant Roles
Guards
Equipped with authority tools and uniforms
Can issue commands and maintain order
Stress levels affect their behavior
Interactions logged and analyzed
Prisoners
Assigned numbers and basic clothing
Must follow guard instructions
Stress levels impact compliance
Behavioral changes tracked
Staff
Dr. Zimbardo (Lead Researcher)
Psychologists
Observers
All monitoring and documenting events
Monitoring Systems
Incident Logging
Behavioral incidents
Conflicts
Resistance events
Compliance records
Stress Analysis
Real-time stress level monitoring
Individual and group stress patterns
Environmental impact assessment
Intervention triggers
Relationship Mapping
Guard-prisoner dynamics
Inter-group relationships
Power structure visualization
Alliance and conflict tracking
Research Value
This simulation provides valuable insights into:
Power dynamics in institutional settings
Psychological effects of authority
Group behavior under stress
Social hierarchy formation
Ethical considerations in authority structures
Last updated