The implications of shared identity on indirect reciprocity

Abstract

The ability to sustain indirect reciprocity is an example of collective intelligence. It is increasingly relevant to future technology and autonomous machines that need to function in a coalition. Indirect reciprocity involves providing benefit to others without guaranteeing a future return. The identity through which an agent presents itself to others is fundamental, as this is how the reputation of an agent is considered. In this paper, we examine the sharing of identity between agents, which is an important and frequently overlooked issue when considering indirect reciprocity. We model an agent's identity using traits, which can be shared with other agents, and offer a basis for an agent to change their identity. Through this approach, we determine how shared identity affects cooperation, and the conditions through which cooperation can be sustained. This also helps us to understand how and why behavioural strategies involving identity function are put in place, such as whitewashing. The framework offers the opportunity to assess the interplay between the sharing of traits and the cost, in terms of reduced cooperation and opportunities for shirkers to benefit.

Networks of reliable reputations and cooperation: a review

“…[209][210][211]). Not only do people earn reputation from their cooperation, but their reputation may also be affected by their group membership and the actions of group members, as group reputation can be formed from the aggregate of individual reputations [38,39,[212][213][214]. Such group reputations do not help to sustain cooperation with out-group members and generally lead to out-group discrimination [38,201].…”

Social Change-based Identity Negotiation: Case of “Cina Benteng” and Indigenous Community in Kalipasir Tangerang, Banten

“…Deliberation is important because it provides a resource for individuals with shared identities to support each other (Bedewi et al 2020). It facilitates social learning to tackle various problems in the community (Lumosi, Pahl-Wostl, and Scholz 2020).…”

A Review of Theoretical Studies on Indirect Reciprocity

“…Application of indirect reciprocity to information science and the Internet is a hot topic. By modeling an agent's identity using traits, that can be shared with other agents, Bedewi et al presented a basis for agents to change their identity [158]. They expect that indirect reciprocity will be effective for future technology and autonomous machines that need to function as a coalition.…”