How eWOM Reduces Uncertainties in Decision-making Process： Using the Concept of Entropy in Information Theory

Abstract

The present study examines the impact of eWOM on consumer decision making process by viewing eWOM as the product information supplier. We employ the concept of information entropy which was proposed in the information theory to explain different consumer responses to various types of product information in eWOM. Information entropy is the degree of uncertainty associated with the information in the message. In eWOM, a variety of information with different levels of entropy is available, and these different entropy levels result in different impacts on consumer behavior. The preliminary hypotheses are formulated to examine the impact of eWOM on consumer behavior, at the product attribute level and the purchase action level separately. An experiment was conducted to online shopping mall users and the analysis gives valuable insights into our future research.