Abstract:

[Purpose] Whether and to what extent the common cycle lengths of online topics affect the triggering between topics is a theoretical and practical problem that requires more attention. [Method] This paper employs power spectrum analysis and red noise test to extract all significant cycle lengths of each topic. Furthermore, to examine the impact and predictive role of shared cycle lengths on triggering between paired topics. [Results] Whether topics share common cycle lengths, and what specific cycle lengths they share, has significant effects on and predictive value for inter-topic triggering. [Conclusion] It is more important to study what wavelengths and vibration patterns are used to “repeat” information in public opinion than simply copying information in large quantities. It is also necessary to consider how a certain issue with a certain pattern of “pulse” can have the greatest impact and linkage on other issues in the entire public opinion field.

Key words: cycle length, power spectrum, red noise test, topic trigger, Granger causality