Modeling:Random map and society generator.

Title:

Creation of a Detailed Random Map

Objective:

The objective of this project is to create a simulation to generate realistically 
random and unique maps of geographical, ecological, policital, and societal features.

Justification:

This project would create a totally unique world which could be used in the 
creation of a computer game, fiction book, or movie. As computers get faster, and 
computer graphics become more believable, it is only a matter of time before 
computers will be involved in generation of such material.

In addition, it would be possible to seed the simulation with geography and/or 
societal factors. This would help answer hypothetical historical questions, such as 
the possible fate of a past civilization without some influece such as a religion or a 
geographical feature.

Description:

This simulation would start with a randomized geographical feature, and then the 
effects of time would be applied. Simple things such as rivers and mountains would 
be followed by food chains and simple evolution. The effects of this environment on 
inhabitants would be assessed, including such things as character, economics, and 
political attitudes. Finally, human civilization would be set up, by putting 
governments in place between probably political boundaries. This would all be done 
by moving the world through a series of simulations.
If this were intended for as ficticious material, the program would attempt to create 
interesting situations, such as tension, war, or philosophically interesting situations.
I would probably create a simple computer game for the purposes of demonstrating 
the products of this program.

Limitations:

Due to the complexity of reality, I cannot effectivelly simulate complex factors on 
economics and civilization in a single year.
Since the complexity of civilizations increases dramatically over time, i would 
probably be limited to a time period far in the past, such as greece or the middle 
ages. Things such as improvements in communications and travel would greatly 
complicate this simulation.

The large-scale nature of this generation would probably not easily lend itself to 
a more personal story, so at first it would be most useful for a Real Time or Turn 
Based Strategy game.