Opinion dynamics in social networks

In recent years, research in opinion dynamics has received a great amount of attention in the field of systems and control. Opinion dynamics studies the spreading of opinions and the evolution of behaviors in social networks by utilizing mathematical and physical models, the agent-based computational modeling tools and dynamical systems theories. Here, we review recent advances in the study of opinion dynamics. First, the fundamental model and some concepts are introduced. Second, opinion dynamics models are presented combined with related results of multi-agent systems from three aspects: individuals, interactions, and decision-makings. Some interesting issues are also discussed. Finally, future directions of the research are pointed out.