Opinion formation is a research area that focuses on how individuals develop and change their beliefs, attitudes, and opinions. This field investigates the various factors that influence people's opinions, including personal experiences, interactions with others, media exposure, and cultural influences. Researchers in this area also study how opinions spread within social networks and how they can be influenced by external information or persuasive messages. Understanding opinion formation is crucial for predicting and shaping public opinion on important issues, such as politics, social trends, and consumer behavior.