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Speaker: Giacomo Albi, University of Verona
Title: Kinetic modelling of collective opinion dynamics with social heterogeneity
Abstract: In this talk, we discuss kinetic models for opinion formation in heterogeneous populations. First, we consider social heterogeneity through network connectivity, where highly connected agents exert stronger influence, and derive the corresponding kinetic description from microscopic interactions. Secondly, we introduce payoff-driven adaptive strategies, coupling public opinion, private conviction, and behavioral response. A Boltzmann model and its asymptotic behaviors are derived. While strategy heterogeneity generally prevents macroscopic closure, state-independent payoffs yield an exact finite-dimensional parametrization of the strategy's distribution. We finally analyze fast-opinion and fast-strategy regimes, characterizing reduced dynamics, stationary states, and the emergence of compromise, stubbornness, and mixed behaviors. Numerical experiments complement the analysis illustrating different dynamical regimes, and the interplay between social heterogeneity, strategic adaptation, and opinion formation.