A Model for Trust and Distrust: The System Dynamics Approach

Abstract The dynamics of trust have evolved from a reliance on human interactions to a newfound dependence on the seamless integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in relationships. Because trust is still treated as elusive in prior research, in this study, we consider a society that utilizes trust as a system and present a panoramic perspective of trust in social systems using the causal loop of systems thinking. The perspective of systems thinking is holistic (integrative) and focuses on the interrelationships among components rather than on the components of the system. Thus, the architecture was presented by integrating the trust and distrust models identified in previous studies. To overcome the challenges presented in previous studies, a model for trust and distrust was developed using a system dynamics approach. By utilizing systems thinking, the dynamics of trust are clearly illustrated among individuals, between individuals and automation, and between individuals and AI. In addition, it will allow for a perspective on the dynamic relationship among trust, reliance, and dependability, which is being investigated in “Humans” and “Automation and AI,” and will contribute to trust research.