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arXiv · 2108.11892

Dynamics of Wealth Inequality in Simple Artificial Societies

John C. Stevenson
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Abstract

A simple generative model of a foraging society generates significant wealth inequalities from identical agents on an equal opportunity landscape. These inequalities arise in both equilibrium and non-equilibrium regimes with some societies essentially never reaching equilibrium. Reproduction costs mitigate inequality beyond their affect on intrinsic growth rate. The highest levels of inequality are found during non-equilibrium regimes. Inequality in dynamic regimes is driven by factors different than those driving steady state inequality. Evolutionary pressures drive the intrinsic growth rate as high as possible, leading to a tragedy of the commons.

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John C. Stevenson. 2021-08-26. Dynamics of Wealth Inequality in Simple Artificial Societies. https://arxiv.org/abs/2108.11892

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