The what-if machine

The WHAT-IF machine

Flowchart of the main outcomes of each WHAT-IF work package

WHAT-IF explained

The WHAT-IF Machine is a simulation platform designed to act as a digital twin of the political information environment. It integrates cutting-edge technologies such as Agent-Based Modeling (ABM) and Large Language Models (LLMs) to model how individuals and groups interact with (social) media.

Step-by-step integration

Flowchart describing the step-by-step integration of the ABM: From gathering the data and conceptualizing the design, to developing the prototype, integrating Large Language Models and finally, validating and applying the model.

What then?

By adjusting parameters, the machine can simulate and test the potential effects of policy interventions—such as regulations on disinformation or algorithmic changes—on democratic citizenship. This allows policymakers to anticipate outcomes and refine strategies in a virtual, ethical, and controlled environment. Co-created with stakeholders, the machine embodies a critical, transparent, and user-centered approach to understanding and shaping the future of media and democracy.

Key concepts

This is how we understand the role of the changing political information environment in shaping democratic citizenship:

Principles of political information environments:

Democratic citizenship consists of:

1

All information should be
available to every citizen

2

Diversity of digital & legacy news
and social media

3

Institutional trust

4

Political knowledge

5

Political participation

THE WHAT-IF MACHINE

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