Predictions of public opinion on the spread of AIDS: Introduction of new computer methodologies

Abstract

Frequently, dynamic analyses of public opinion cannot be performed because of incomplete polling. This problem is clearly evident for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Thus, to overcome this limitation, the present paper demonstrates the usefulness of a new methodology whereby opinion (e.g., the spread of AIDS) can be estimated using the mathematical model of ideodynamics. As input, the model uses information in the mass media scored by computer, using the technique of successive filtrations. Such opinion computations can be made over any period of time, however long or short, so long as the mass media provide the major information about the issue.