Three-State Opinion Model on Complex Topologies

We investigate opinion diffusion on complex networks and the interplay between the existence of neutral opinion states and non-trivial network structures. For this purpose, we apply a three-state opinion model based on magnetic-like interactions to modular complex networks, both synthetic and real networks extracted from Twitter. The model allows for tuning the contribution of neutral agents using a neutrality parameter. We also consider social agitation, encoded as a temperature, that accounts for random opinion changes that are beyond the agent neighborhood opinion state. Using this model, we study which topological features influence the formation of consensus, bipartidism, or fragmentation of opinions in three parties, and how the neutrality parameter and the temperature interplay with the network structure.

Automated summary

We investigate the diffusion of opinions on complex networks and the interaction between the existence of neutral opinion states and non-trivial network structures. Using a three-state opinion model, we analyze the impact of topological features on consensus formation, bipartisanship, and opinion fragmentation in three parties. Our findings suggest that the neutrality parameter and temperature play a role in shaping opinion dynamics in relation to the network structure.