Opinion formation and spread: Does randomness of behaviour and information flow matter?

We propose an opinion dynamics model based on Latane's social impact theory. Agents in this model are heterogeneous and, in addition to opinions, are characterised by their varying levels of persuasion and support. The model is tested for two and three initial opinions randomly distributed among agents. We examine how the randomness of behaviour and the flow of information between agents affect the formation and spread of opinions. Our main research involves the process of opinion evolution, opinion cluster formation and studying the probability of sustaining opinion. The results show that opinion formation and spread are influenced by both flow of information between agents (interactions outside the closest neighbours) and randomness in adopting opinions.