Collective Dynamics in Biological and Social Systems


A new paradigm for collective dynamics: the emergence of leaders

Eitan Tadmor

University of Maryland

Abstract:  

Basic models of collective dynamics are based on alignment. We propose an alternative paradigm based on the tendency of agents “to move ahead” which leads to the formation of trails and emergence of leaders. Different descriptions of collective dynamics arise when the number of agents tends to infinity, with the formation of Dirac masses at the kinetic level of description, and critical thresholds at the level of social hydrodynamics.