Agent-Based Modeling of Rumor Propagation Using Expected Integrated Mean Squared Error Optimal Design

Shih-Hsien Tseng,Tien Son Nguyen

doi:10.3390/asi3040048

Shih-Hsien Tseng, Tien Son Nguyen

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/asi3040048

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Abstract

In the “Age of the Internet”, fake news and rumor-mongering have emerged as some of the most critical factors that affect our online social lives. For example, in the workplace, rumor spreading runs rampant during times when employees may be plagued with uncertainty about the nature and consequences of major changes. Positive information should be widely propagated as much as possible; however, we must limit the spread of rumors in an effort to reduce their inherently harmful effects. The purpose of this research is to explain the mechanisms for controlling rumors and suggest an approach for dispelling the rumor effect in the workplace. In this study, we will present a simple simulation framework of agent-based modeling and apply Social Impact Theory to explain rumor propagation within social networks. Based on our results, we have found that organizations can significantly reduce the spread of the rumors by improving the workplace environment and instituting counseling for those in management positions.

Highlights

Scholars have focused on workplace-based research for many years; current challenges seem most daunting, such as the spreading of rumors, which is one of the most critical problems that managers encounter
Since our study focuses more on heterogeneity, we decided to use agent-based modeling to formulate and predict the reactions of agents to the social environment based on Social Impact Theory [13]
The proposed model, which was based on our conceptual model presented in the previous section, was implemented with agent-based modeling via NetLogo software version 6.0.4, a free software platform that enabled us to incorporate some of the key conditions observed in real-world observations

Summary

Introduction

Scholars have focused on workplace-based research for many years; current challenges seem most daunting, such as the spreading of rumors, which is one of the most critical problems that managers encounter. Rumors about crime, tainted food, the possible outbreak of war, etc., can cause serious problems, even threaten our careers, relationships, governmental policies, public officials, democracy, and sometimes even peace itself [3]; it seems they are unavoidable. Scholars have researched this fascinating topic for many decades, yet it remains a critical problem today. With the popularity of social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter, rumors have greater potential to disperse even wider and faster than ever before [4]

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Conclusion