A hybrid model for opinion formation

作者：Borra Domenica^*; Lorenzi Tommaso

来源：Zeitschrift fur Angewandte Mathematik und Physik, 2013, 64(3): 419-437.

DOI：10.1007/s00033-012-0259-z

• Multiagent systems
• Continuous opinion
• Bounded confidence
• Asymptotic analysis
• Weak convergence

This paper presents a hybrid model for opinion formation in a large group of agents exposed to the persuasive action of a small number of strong opinion leaders. The model is defined by coupling a finite difference equation for the dynamics of leaders opinion with a continuous integro-differential equation for the dynamics of the others. Such a definition stems from the idea that the leaders are few and tend to retain original opinions, so that their dynamics occur on a longer time scale with respect to the one of the other agents. A general well-posedness result is established for the initial value problem linked to the model. The asymptotic behavior in time of the related solution is characterized for some general parameter settings, which mimic distinct social scenarios, where different emerging behaviors can be observed. Analytical results are illustrated and extended through numerical simulations.

• 出版日期2013-6