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Rise Of The Centrist: From Binary To Continuous Opinion Dynamics

Author

Listed:
  • GEORGE A. BAKER

    (Department of Physics, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK)

  • JAMES P. HAGUE

    (Department of Physics, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK;
    Department of Physics and Astronomy, The Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK)

Abstract

We propose a model that extends the binary "united we stand, divided we fall" opinion dynamics of Sznajd-Weron to handle continuous and multi-state discrete opinions on a linear chain. Disagreement dynamics are often ignored in continuous extensions of the binary rules, so we make the most symmetric continuum extension of the binary model that can treat the consequences of agreement (debate) and disagreement (confrontation) within a population of agents. We use the continuum extension as an opportunity to develop rules for persistence of opinion (memory). Rules governing the propagation of centrist views are also examined. Monte Carlo simulations are carried out. We find that both memory effects and the type of centrist significantly modify the variance of average opinions in the large timescale limits of the models. Finally, we describe the limit of applicability for Sznajd-Weron's model of binary opinions as the continuum limit is approached. By comparing Monte Carlo results and long time-step limits, we find that the opinion dynamics of binary models are significantly different to those where agents are permitted more than 3 opinions.

Suggested Citation

  • George A. Baker & James P. Hague, 2008. "Rise Of The Centrist: From Binary To Continuous Opinion Dynamics," International Journal of Modern Physics C (IJMPC), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 19(09), pages 1459-1475.
    • Handle: RePEc:wsi:ijmpcx:v:19:y:2008:i:09:n:s0129183108013023
    DOI: 10.1142/S0129183108013023
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    Cited by:

    1. Sznajd-Weron, Katarzyna & Sznajd, Józef & Weron, Tomasz, 2021. "A review on the Sznajd model — 20 years after," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 565(C).

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