Author(s): Gosselin Barker*
This research article explores the dynamic interplay between social self-perception and behavioral influence in digital simulations, shedding light on the complexities that define our online interactions. In an era where virtual spaces play an increasingly significant role in shaping human behavior, understanding the mechanisms through which individuals perceive themselves in simulated social environments is paramount. Drawing on interdisciplinary insights from psychology, computer science, and sociology, this study employs a variety of methodologies, including virtual reality experiments, agent-based modeling, and data analytics, to comprehensively examine the intricate relationship between self-perception and behavior in digital contexts. Aiming for this goal requires the decision whether to communicate information truthfully or if deceptive lies might improve the reputation even more. The basis of this decision involves not only an individual’s belief about others, but also their understanding of others’ beliefs, described by the concept of Theory of Mind, and the mental processes from which these beliefs emerge. In the present work, we used the Reputation Game Simulation as an approach for modeling the evolution of reputation in agent-based social communication networks, in which agents treat information approximately according to Bayesian logic. We implemented a second-order Theory of Mind based message decision strategy that allows the agents to mentally simulate the impact of different communication options on the knowledge of their counterparts’ minds in order to identify the message that is expected to maximize their reputation.
The Journal of International Social Research received 7760 citations as per Google Scholar report
