Outward-inward information flux in an opinion formation model on different topologies

TL;DR

This paper investigates opinion formation dynamics on various network topologies using agents influenced by local neighbors through two rules, revealing a universal transition point from consensus to disagreement regardless of network type or influence rule.

Contribution

It introduces a combined influence model using Sznajd and Galam rules on different networks, analyzing the resulting opinion dynamics and transition points.

Findings

Universal transition point from consensus to disagreement.

Network topology and influence rule do not affect the critical initial opinion percentage.

The model captures key features of opinion dynamics across different network structures.

Abstract

A simple model of opinion formation dynamics in which binary-state agents make up their opinions due to the influence of agents in a local neighborhood is studied using different network topologies. Each agent uses two different strategies, the Sznajd rule with a probability $q$ and the Galam majority rule (without inertia) otherwise; being $q$ a parameter of the system. Initially, the binary-state agents may have opinions (at random) against or in favor about a certain topic. The time evolution of the system is studied using different network topologies, starting from different initial opinion densities. A transition from consensus in one opinion to the other is found at the same percentage of initial distribution no matter which type of network is used or which opinion formation rule is used.