The Civilization Dilemma : The Effect of Communication and Backward Induction in Social Dilemmas

摘要

This essay will create a model to simulate the dilemma that two civilizations will face if they meet in the universe based on the Prisoner's Dilemma model. The creation of this model is based on six main assumptions. The model first concludes that the civilizations are likely to attack each other and end up with a lose-lose circumstance. However, by relieving more and more assumptions, the importance of communication and backward induction start to stand out. By further analyzing and separate the model into two sections, it further concludes that civilizations are likely to develop together peacefully due to the two-way threat and communication. Then, a new model called “Liar Model” which is similar to a Stag Hunt Game has been created based on the second model. This model concludes that civilizations are likely to reach a new situation of distrustful cooperation.