A mixed motive approach to lobbying: applying game theory to analyse the impact of co‐operation and conflict on perceived lobbying success

Abstract

This study was motivated by the apparent discrepancy between guidance for public relations best practice using co-operation and collaboration to resolve conflict, and the potential to use the positive elements of conflict and competition to lobby more effectively. Game theory matrix was applied to nine lobbying campaigns, and used narrative analysis to identify themes of co-operation, conflict, and mixed motive lobbying in the transcripts. The primary research identified that: * Conflict, co-operation and mixed-motive lobbying were apparent in all the case studies. * Mixed motive lobbying was unattainable between organizations with diametrically opposed interests and this may limit its application. * A further obstacle to mixed motive strategies is the high level of resources it uses. *The numerical game theory matrix used in this study was of limited use, however, the conceptual framework the theory provided was effective at modelling conflict and cooperation strategies. * Formal co-operative alliances were common in the sample. Smaller coalitions appeared to be more effective than the larger ones. * Those engaged in high conflict campaigns perceived themselves to be more effective than those engaged in lower conflict campaigns, however, this would need to be examined more exhaustively to establish causality.A mixed motive approach to lobbying 85 Judging lobbying effectivenessEstablishing the effectiveness of lobbying activity is difficult; how do you disaggregate A mixed motive approach to lobbying 87 A mixed motive approach to lobbying 89 A mixed motive approach to lobbying 91The three businesses in the sample (P2, P6 and P9) described being involved in mixed motive A mixed motive approach to lobbying 93 A mixed motive approach to lobbying 95 Player Two Player n Figure A3. Model of pure co-operation.

Knowledge dilemmas within organizations: Resolutions from game theory

“…We also acknowledge the limitations of a pure, rationality-driven analytical approach such as the numerical game theory matrix [1] and subsequently combine observations from other conceptual frameworks such as behavioral game theory, empirical evidences from experimental games and adaptive analyses. The implications of the modelling are discussed for generalization in understanding new situations and key insights are presented as prescriptive guiding principles in formulating knowledge policies in organizations to combat the dilemmas.…”

It’s the way that you do it

“…However, the numerical Game Theory matrix might be of limited use (Aitken-Turff and Jackson 2006). In addition, a vast proportion of existing research on Game Theory has focused on computer-based laboratory experiments that analyse participants' favoured strategies (Aitken-Turff and Jackson 2006). This body of research may reinforce the notion that Game Theory does not apply to the complex realities of social situations.…”

“…The Game Theory recognition of cooperative and competitive interests has had a productive impact on studying Coopetitive Knowledge Sharing. However, a number of factors may inhibit the applicability of Game Theory in such contexts (Zeng andChen, 2003, Aitken-Turff andJackson 2006). Aitken-Turff and Jackson (2006) suggest that descriptive aspects of Game Theory such as its conceptual framework may be effective at modelling cooperation and competition.…”

“…However, a number of factors may inhibit the applicability of Game Theory in such contexts (Zeng andChen, 2003, Aitken-Turff andJackson 2006). Aitken-Turff and Jackson (2006) suggest that descriptive aspects of Game Theory such as its conceptual framework may be effective at modelling cooperation and competition. However, the numerical Game Theory matrix might be of limited use (Aitken-Turff and Jackson 2006).…”