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A Geometric Model of Opinion Polarization

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  • Jan Hk{a}z{l}a
  • Yan Jin
  • Elchanan Mossel
  • Govind Ramnarayan

Abstract

We introduce a simple, geometric model of opinion polarization. It is a model of political persuasion, as well as marketing and advertising, utilizing social values. It focuses on the interplay between different topics and persuasion efforts. We demonstrate that societal opinion polarization often arises as an unintended byproduct of influencers attempting to promote a product or idea. We discuss a number of mechanisms for the emergence of polarization involving one or more influencers, sending messages strategically, heuristically, or randomly. We also examine some computational aspects of choosing the most effective means of influencing agents, and the effects of those strategic considerations on polarization.

Suggested Citation

  • Jan Hk{a}z{l}a & Yan Jin & Elchanan Mossel & Govind Ramnarayan, 2019. "A Geometric Model of Opinion Polarization," Papers 1910.05274, arXiv.org, revised Aug 2021.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:1910.05274
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Rainer Hegselmann & Ulrich Krause, 2002. "Opinion Dynamics and Bounded Confidence Models, Analysis and Simulation," Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation, Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation, vol. 5(3), pages 1-2.
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    3. Daron Acemoglu & Asuman Ozdaglar, 2011. "Opinion Dynamics and Learning in Social Networks," Dynamic Games and Applications, Springer, vol. 1(1), pages 3-49, March.
    4. Krasa, Stefan & Polborn, Mattias K., 2018. "Political Competition in Legislative Elections," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 112(4), pages 809-825, November.
    5. repec:nas:journl:v:115:y:2018:p:9216-9221 is not listed on IDEAS
    6. Guodong Shi & Alexandre Proutiere & Mikael Johansson & John S. Baras & Karl H. Johansson, 2016. "The Evolution of Beliefs over Signed Social Networks," Operations Research, INFORMS, vol. 64(3), pages 585-604, June.
    7. Shanto Iyengar & Sean J. Westwood, 2015. "Fear and Loathing Across Party Lines: New Evidence on Group Polarization," American Journal of Political Science, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 59(3), pages 690-707, July.
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