Cognitive dissonance and introversion effects on opinion dynamics and echo chamber formation

Abstract

Bounded confidence models (BCM) are extensively used to model continuous opinion dynamics in social networks. Typically, these models are analysed on static networks where edges do not vary over time. Following in the footsteps of adaptive voter models, further research has considered BCMs in the setting where agents are able to dynamically adjust their edges, which subsequently feedback into the opinion dynamics of the network. Several methods of updating connections have been proposed ranging from random rewiring to more sophisticated approaches based on concordant edges, homophily and cognitive dissonance. We present a modified form of the bounded confidence model, termed the selfish agent opinion (SAO) model, where connection updates are evaluated using a general cost function. Agents in the SAO model maintain two classes of relationships, friends and acquaintances, based on which they update their opinions and edges to optimise a payoff function that may include multiple social factors. This paper explores the effects, which we describe as “cognitive dissonance” and “introversion” that attempt to mimic postulated behaviours associated with the social concepts of the same name, on social network and opinion dynamics. We find that the SAO model naturally produces echo chambers for social networks with increased sensitivity to cognitive dissonance, whilst introversion produces high levels of fragmentation and low opinion mobility. Additionally, the effect of tolerant agents and inquisitive social encounters is investigated. It is found that both the presence of very small numbers of tolerant agents and inquisitive encounters are able to strongly promote consensus formation.