Non-consensus states in circular opinion model with repulsive interaction

Most of opinion models focus on consensus induced by assimilation effects (attractive interaction). The roles of backfire effects (repulsive interaction dependent upon opinion difference) on non-consensus states are less paid attentions on. In this work, we introduce circular opinion which is defined on a circle with a circumference of 1. We study a circular opinion model on a ring with the backfire effect. The interplay between circular opinions and repulsive interaction leads to rich opinion dynamics. We identify six types of opinion states according to their profiles in opinion space and their spatial organizations: three opinion states without spatial structure including disordered state, fragment state with several opinion clusters, and polarized state with only two opinion clusters; three opinion states with spatial structure, travelling polarized state which is a tilted polarized state in space, clustered polarized states and clustered, and travelling clustered polarized state. The stability diagrams of different opinion states have been explored on the parameter plane and we find the coexistence among different opinion states is prevalent. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study introduces a circular opinion model and investigates the dynamics of circular opinions on a ring with the backfire effect. The interplay between circular opinions and repulsive interaction leads to rich opinion dynamics. Six types of opinion states are identified based on their profiles in opinion space and spatial organizations.