Decision dynamics in complex networks subject to mass media and social contact transmission mechanisms

Abstract

The dynamics of decisions in complex networks is studied within a Markov process framework using numerical simulations combined with mathematical insight into the process mechanisms. A mathematical discrete-time model is derived based on a set of basic assumptions on the convincing mechanisms associated to two opinions. The model is analyzed with respect to multiplicity of critical points, illustrating in this way the main behavior to be expected in the network. Particular interest is focussed on the effect of social network and exogenous mass media-based influences on the decision behavior. A set of numerical simulation results is provided illustrating how these mechanisms impact the final decision results. The analysis reveals (i) the presence of fixed-point multiplicity (with a maximum of four different fixed points), multistability, and sensitivity with respect to process parameters, and (ii) that mass media have a strong impact on the decision behavior.

Zombie politics: evolutionary algorithms to counteract the spread of negative opinions

“…1 Another factor that is crucial in the simulation of opinion propagation in human populations is the topology of the underlying network. It has been shown, that human interaction is organized in the fashion of small-world networks [Rodríguez Lucatero et al, 2012, Wessels and Miller, 1999, Eubank et al, 2004, Amaral et al, 2000. These networks govern how individuals are linked to each other.…”