Transfer in multi-theme opinion dynamics of Deffuant et al

TL;DR

This paper explores how combining Deffuant's opinion dynamics model with Axelrod's cultural transfer model affects multi-theme opinion formation, revealing tendencies for consensus or polarization.

Contribution

It introduces a hybrid simulation approach integrating Deffuant and Axelrod models to study multi-theme opinion dynamics.

Findings

People tend to agree on nearly all or nearly no themes.

The hybrid model reproduces polarization and consensus patterns.

Simulations highlight the influence of transfer mechanisms on opinion clustering.

Abstract

Monte Carlo simulations mix the opinion dynamics of Deffuant et al with the cultural transfer model of Axelrod, using ten discrete possible opinions on ten different themes. As Jacobmeier's simulations of the pure Deffuant case, people preferably agree on nearly all or nearly no theme.