Exploring the Impact of Subversive Agents on Consensus Processes in Project Teams: Multi-agent Simulations

This theoretical study investigates the influence of subversive agents on consensus-seeking processes within project teams. Departing from traditional cooperative team dynamics, the research introduces agents strategically working to influence views and decisions. Key findings reveal that yes-agents, actively advocating for specific views, can enhance consensus times but carry the risk of swaying decisions toward potentially incorrect outcomes. In contrast, subversive agents, by widening the range of options or polarizing the group, substantially delay consensus processes. Notably, the level of cooperation among subversive agents does not significantly impact consensus times, yet coordinated actions profoundly shape decision outcomes. Under specific conditions, even a small minority of subversive agents can significantly extend the time to reach consensus, showcasing their potent influence. This research contributes to understanding the interplay between cooperation, subversion, and decision-making, offering valuable insights for future exploration and empirical research.