A Literature Review on Correlation Clustering: Cross-disciplinary Taxonomy with Bibliometric Analysis

The correlation clustering problem identifies clusters in a set of objects when the qualitative information about objects’ mutual similarities or dissimilarities is given in a signed network. This clustering problem has been studied in different scientific areas, including computer sciences, operations research, and social sciences. A plethora of applications, problem extensions, and solution approaches have resulted from these studies. This paper focuses on the cross-disciplinary evolution of this problem by analysing the taxonomic and bibliometric developments during the 1992 to 2020 period. With the aim of enhancing cross-fertilization of knowledge, we present a unified discussion of the problem, including details of several mathematical formulations and solution approaches. Additionally, we analyse the literature gaps and propose some dominant research directions for possible future studies.