An energy-based interaction model for population opinion dynamics with topic coupling

Hossein Noorazar, Matthew J. Sottile () and Kevin R. Vixie ()
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Hossein Noorazar: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-3113, USA
Matthew J. Sottile: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-3113, USA
Kevin R. Vixie: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-3113, USA

International Journal of Modern Physics C (IJMPC), 2018, vol. 29, issue 11, 1-40

Abstract: We introduce a new, and quite general variational model for opinion dynamics based on pairwise interaction potentials and a range of opinion evolution protocols ranging from random interactions to global synchronous flows in the opinion state space. The model supports the concept of topic “coupling”, allowing opinions held by individuals to be changed via indirect interaction with others on different subjects. Interaction topology is governed by a graph that determines interactions. Our model, which is really a family of variational models, has, as special cases, many of the previously established models for the opinion dynamics.After introducing the model, we study the dynamics of the special case in which the potential is either a tent function or a constructed bell-like curve. We find that even in these relatively simple potential function examples there emerges interesting behavior. We also present results of preliminary numerical explorations of the behavior of the model to motivate questions that can be explored analytically.

Keywords: Opinion game; opinion dynamics; naming game; social interaction (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2018
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DOI: 10.1142/S0129183118501152

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