IN3’s Communication Networks & Social Change (CNSC) is pleased to invite you to the Seminar: «Exploring Opinion Dynamics and Collective Decision-Making: Integrating Models, Simulations, Experiments, and Real life», given by Emanuele Cozzo external associate researcher of the CNSC.
The seminar will be held, in hybrid format, on Wednesday, March 6 at 10:00 to 11:15 h (CET) in Room C1.5 (former S101) of the Interdisciplinary R&I Hub (Building C).
Venue
Interdisciplinary R&I Hub (Building C) - Room C1.15 (former S101))
Rambla del Poblenou, 154
08018 Barcelona
Espanya
When
06/03/2024 10.00h
Organized by
Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, IN3's Communication Networks & Social Change (CNSC)
Program
Abstract
Opinion dynamics is the research field in which formal models and computational tools are used to understand the dynamic processes governing the diffusion and evolution of opinions within human groups. Collective decision-making, identified as the iterative exchange of opinions within peer groups to make a decision, is approached as a specific case within the broader field of opinion dynamics.
Addressing the micro-Macro problem in opinion dynamics is a central focus—examining how micro-dynamics at the individual level shape Macro-states within social groups and how this feeds back influencing and constraining the micro-dynamic. A relational standpoint is assumed, emphasizing the role of the complex network of social interactions mediating between micro and Macro levels. Key issues explored include consensus formation, polarization, fragmentation, and the impact of minorities.
The talk will begin by reviewing fundamental features of main formal models in opinion dynamics. It will introduce a complex networks framework to elucidate the underlying structure of participatory processes on a political platform (Decidim). Results from situated experiments (Dialoguem) will be presented, followed by a discussion on how real-time data visualizations based on models can enhance augmented deliberation processes. The focus will be on understanding the influence of misunderstandings and cognitive biases on decision-making.
Finally, we will briefly discuss the possible productive relation between experiment and algorithm design in political platforms development.
Emanuele Cozzo
Emanuele Cozzo got his degree in Physics at the “Sapienza” University of Rome. There, also began his interest in critical science, tapping on the tradition of the department of Physics. He got his PhD in complex systems and networks at the BiFi / University of Zaragoza. He is currently developing his research activity at the University of Barcelona in the ClabB research group and at the UOC in the CNSC research group, interested in the modeling and analysis of multilayer networks and in computational social sciences. He is the author of numerous publications in international journals and co-author of the book “Multiplex Networks Basic Formalism and Structural Properties”. He is co-founder of Heuristica, an extitutional laboratory for research, training and mediation based on techno-scientific practices and knowledge.