Overview of Universal Behavior Computing

The study of behavior traces back to the observation and analysis of human behavior in specific environments. To further understand and simulate behavior, researchers have integrated disciplines such as computer science, data science, and behavioral science, establishing complex models that represent and simulate behavior. Behavior computing encompasses three main aspects: behavior analysis, behavior modeling, and behavior simulation. This book investigates behavior analysis, modeling, and simulation, showcasing their synergistic nature in advancing our understanding of complex behavioral phenomena. With the rapid development of mobile networks, humans are increasingly immersed in a hybrid space of virtual and real, generating and collecting a vast amount of behavioral data. Meanwhile, research on behavior is no longer limited to serving humans alone; billions of smart devices can also be viewed as initiators of behavior. We conduct a comprehensive survey of recent representative research in the field of universal behavior computing. Specifically, we first review traditional methods of behavior analysis. Then, we introduce emerging key technologies and frameworks for constructing behavior models. Finally, we discuss further opportunities for utilizing behavior simulation in future research. We believe that this book will garner increasing attention, stimulate productive discussions, and inspire further research directions in behavior computing.