Information Spread in a Social Media Age: Modeling and Control

The rise of social networks and social media has led to a shift in the ways information is dispersed, and the need to examine, model, and analyze this trajectory has never been greater. This book provides an intuitive and easy-to-understand exploration of social media information spread alongside technical and mathematical concepts, using simple language and accessible case studies. It emphasizes mathematical modeling of information spread over social media and presents novel models to account for modern social media concerns such as community filter bubbles, strongly polarized groups, and contentious information spread. Readers will learn how to build and execute simple case studies using Twitter data to help verify the proposed models and will also introduce more complex engineering control concepts, including controller design, PID control, and optimal control.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The advent of social networks and social media has brought about a significant transformation in the dissemination of information. Platforms such as Twitter and Facebook have facilitated the formation of communities, enabling individuals to connect and engage more easily. However, these same platforms have also become conduits for misinformation, fake news, and polarization. In light of this, there is an urgent need to examine, model, and analyze the trajectory of information spread within this new paradigm.

This text, written by the authors with a combined teaching experience, engineering knowledge, and numerous academic journal publications in these areas, aims to provide an intuitive and accessible exploration of social media information spread. It employs simple language and contemporary case studies, including those centered around significant events such as United States mass shootings, the #MeToo social movement, and more, to ensure accessibility to a broad audience. At the same time, readers with prior knowledge of the topics will benefit from the mathematical model and control elements, along with accompanying sample simulation code, to deepen their understanding.

By engaging with the content of this book and completing the included exercises, readers will acquire a comprehensive grasp of modern social media systems, network fundamentals, model development techniques, and social marketing. The mathematical modeling of information spread over social media receives significant emphasis, with a review of existing epidemiology and marketing-based models. The book then presents novel models developed by the authors to address contemporary social media concerns, such as community filter bubbles, strongly polarized groups, and contentious information spread. Readers will learn how to build and execute simple case studies using Twitter data to validate the proposed models and gain practical insights.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of information spread in the age of social media. By providing a comprehensive and accessible exploration of the topic, it equips readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of social media and make informed decisions in today's digital world.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 160 x 242 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367208714