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arXiv · 1406.3668

Optimal cooperation-trap strategies for the iterated Rock-Paper-Scissors game

Zedong Bi·Hai-Jun Zhou
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Abstract

In an iterated non-cooperative game, if all the players act to maximize their individual accumulated payoff, the system as a whole usually converges to a Nash equilibrium that poorly benefits any player. Here we show that such an undesirable destiny is avoidable in an iterated Rock-Paper-Scissors (RPS) game involving two players X and Y. Player X has the option of proactively adopting a cooperation-trap strategy, which enforces complete cooperation from the rational player Y and leads to a highly beneficial as well as maximally fair situation to both players. That maximal degree of cooperation is achievable in such a competitive system with cyclic dominance of actions may stimulate creative thinking on how to resolve conflicts and enhance cooperation in human societies.

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Zedong Bi, Hai-Jun Zhou. 2014-06-17. Optimal cooperation-trap strategies for the iterated Rock-Paper-Scissors game. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0111278

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