Steering opinion dynamics through control of social networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a control method that adjusts social network connections to steer collective opinions towards a target, ensuring network connectivity and opinion cohesion.

Contribution

It presents novel control strategies for evolving social networks that influence opinion dynamics indirectly through connection strengths.

Findings

Networks can be controlled to reach target opinions

Connectivity and cohesion are maintained during control

Different control approaches offer varied insights

Abstract

In this paper we propose a novel control approach for opinion dynamics on evolving networks. The controls modify the strength of connections in the network, rather than influencing opinions directly, with the overall goal of steering the population towards a target opinion. This requires that the social network remains sufficiently connected, the population does not break into separate opinion clusters, and that the target opinion remains accessible. We present several approaches to addressing these challenges, considering questions of controllability, instantaneous control and optimal control. Each of these approaches provides a different view on the complex relationship between opinion and network dynamics and raises interesting questions for future research.