A pheromone model for public opinion formation

A method to simulate the dynamics of public opinion formation with pheromone is proposed. It is assumed that an individual would sense and deposit pheromone during its opinion formation, and it changes and updates opinion basing on the transition probability determined by the distribution of pheromone. Using the proposed model, simulations with several sets of parameters are carried out. The results show that the phenomena of consensus and bifurcation emerge in the evolution of public opinion under the action of pheromone. We also find that the evolution needs more time to reach steady state for the greater size of individuals, and for the less evaporation of pheromone. Moreover, the model can be used to explain the influence of opinion leader on other individuals in the process of opinion formation. The interactions between individuals and environment can be modeled successfully with pheromone.