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A formulation of computational trust based on quantum decision theory

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Abstract

In this paper, we propose a new formulation of computational trust based on quantum decision theory (QDT). By using this new formulation, we can divide the assigned trustworthiness values to objective and subjective parts. First, we create a mapping between the QDT definitions and the trustworthiness constructions. Then, we demonstrate that it is possible for the quantum interference terms to appear in the trust decision making process. By using the interference terms, we can quantify the emotions and subjective preferences of the trustor in various contexts with different amounts of uncertainty and risk. The non-commutative nature of quantum probabilities is a valuable mathematical tool to model the relative nature of trust. In relative trust models, the evaluation of a trustee candidate is not only dependent on the trustee itself, but on the other existing competitors. In other words, the first evaluation is performed in an isolated context whereas the rest of the evaluations are performed in a comparative one. It is shown that a QDT-based model of trust can account for these order effects in the trust decision making process. Finally, based on the principles of risk and uncertainty aversion, interference alternation theorem and interference quarter law, quantitative values are assigned to interference terms. By performing empirical evaluations, we have demonstrated that various scenarios can be better explained by a quantum model of trust rather than the commonly used classical models.

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Notes

  1. This property is so fundamental in quantum systems that it is the basis of quantum cryptography. Any third party observation along the wire will destroy the initial state of the system. This is critical for detection of unauthorized observation of quantum encrypted state.

  2. 〈ψ| is the conjugate transpose of the column vector |ψ〉.

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Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the editor and anonymous referees of this journal whose comments substantially improved this paper. We are also grateful to Iran National Science Foundation (INSF) for financial support of this research.

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  1. Trustworthy Computing Laboratory, School of Computer Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Hengam St., Resalat Sq., Tehran, Iran, Postal Code: 16846-13114

    Mehrdad Ashtiani & Mohammad Abdollahi Azgomi

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  1. Mehrdad Ashtiani
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  2. Mohammad Abdollahi Azgomi
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Correspondence to Mohammad Abdollahi Azgomi.

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Ashtiani, M., Azgomi, M.A. A formulation of computational trust based on quantum decision theory. Inf Syst Front 18, 735–764 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10796-015-9555-4

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