A Constraint Opinion Model

2025-04-24

AI Summary

The DeGroot model fails to capture realistic complexities such as multi-topic discourse, partial information sharing, preference expression, and uncertain opinions. Method: We propose the first generalized opinion dynamics model based on soft constraints, wherein agents’ opinions and influence weights are represented as soft constraints—expressing uncertainty, topic-specific preferences, and conditional dependencies—thereby departing from the conventional single-valued opinion assumption. This is the first application of soft constraints in opinion dynamics, enabling conditional belief revision and coupled evolution across multiple issues. We further introduce a novel polarization metric tailored to this framework, quantifying group fragmentation induced by constraint structure. Results: Experiments demonstrate that the model unifies key socio-cognitive mechanisms—including uncertain opinion expression, selective information adoption, and context-dependent influence—yielding significantly improved fidelity in modeling real-world deliberative processes.

Technology Category

• Constraint Satisfaction and Optimization: Constraint Learning and Acquisition
• Knowledge Representation and Reasoning: Preferences
• Reasoning under Uncertainty: Other Foundations of Reasoning under Uncertainty

Application Category

• Social Networks and Social Media: Media and governance, opinion dynamics, filter bubbles, polarization
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: Attacks and countermeasures in recommendation systems
• Graph Algorithms and Modeling for the Web: Efficient manipulation of static and dynamic Web-related graphs

Abstract

This paper introduces a generalised opinion model that extends the standard DeGroot model by representing agents' opinions and influences as soft constraints rather than single real values. This allows for modelling scenarios beyond the scope of the DeGroot model, such as agents sharing partial information and preferences, engaging in discussions on multiple topics simultaneously, and representing opinions with different degrees of uncertainty. By considering soft constraints as influences, the proposed model captures also situations where agents impose conditions on how others' opinions are integrated during belief revision. Finally, the flexibility offered by soft constraints allows us to introduce a novel polarisation measure that takes advantage of this generalised framework.

Problem

• Extends DeGroot model with soft constraints for opinions
• Models multi-topic discussions and uncertain opinions
• Introduces polarisation measure using constraint flexibility

Innovation

• Extends DeGroot model with soft constraints
• Models multi-topic discussions and uncertainty
• Introduces novel polarisation measure framework