A mathematical model is proposed for the evolution of ideas. This model is different from previous mathematical models in two important respects. First, ideas are structured as mutually exclusive states within issues. Second, the emphasis is on the content of the messages transmitted between people and not on the people transmitting the ideas. Such a structure permits predictions about the rate of change of ideas in society based solely on the information available to the population. This information is codified in new units called infons.
The Journal of Mathematical Sociology
Volume 11, 1985 - Issue 1
![Sample our Social Sciences journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/110822/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Social-Sciences.jpg"})
Reprints and Corporate Permissions
Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?
To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:
Academic Permissions
Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?
Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:
If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.
Related Research Data
A differential equation model for predicting public opinions and behaviors from persuasive information: Application to the index of consumer sentiment
Source:
Informa UK Limited
What moves public opinion
Source:
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
A competing infection model for the spread of different viewpoints of a divisive idea
Source:
Informa UK Limited
Linking provided by
