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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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