A bayesian approach to nonparametric test problems

We propose an alternative approach to the classical nonparametric test problems, such as the goodness of fit test and the two-sample nonparametric test. In this approach, those problems are reviewed from the viewpoint of the estimation of the underlying population distributions and are formulated as the problem of model selection between Bayesian models which were recently proposed by the present authors. The model selection can be easily realized by choosing a model with the smallest ABIC, Akaike Bayesian information criterion. The approach provides the estimates of the density of the underlying population distribution(s) of any shape as well as the evaluation of the goodness of fit or the check of homogeneity of distributions. The practical utility of the present procedure is demonstrated by numerical examples. The difference in behavior between the present procedure and a density estimator GALTHY proposed by Akaike and Arahata is also briefly discussed.This paper was originally read at the Conference on Graphical Models to Analyze Structures (Organizer: N. Wermuth, Johannes Gutenberg University), June 30-July 2, 1986, Wiesbaden, West Germany.     

Oscillation of the NCO model

We study opinion oscillation of the nonconsensus opinion model (NCO) on graphs, and in particular on bipartite graphs. Using intensive numerical simulations, we investigate the relationship between amplitude A$A$ (the percentage of nodes whose opinions oscillate) and (p,q)$(p,q)$, which are the initial configuration fractions with opinion 1 on two sets of two bipartite graphs. Finally, for the general graph, we present several definitions and develop three propositions as regards whether an oscillation can occur or not on a certain graph.     

Statistical Physics Of Opinion Formation: Is it a SPOOF?

We present a short review based on the nonlinear q-voter model about problems and methods raised within statistical physics of opinion formation (SPOOF). We describe relations between models of opinion formation, developed by physicists, and theoretical models of social response, known in social psychology. We draw attention to issues that are interesting for social psychologists and physicists. We show examples of studies directly inspired by social psychology like: “independence vs. anticonformity” or “personality vs. situation”. We summarize the results that have been already obtained and point out what else can be done, also with respect to other models in SPOOF. Finally, we demonstrate several analytical methods useful in SPOOF, such as the concept of effective force and potential, Landau's approach to phase transitions, or mean-field and pair approximations.