Communication and Cooperation

TIT FOR TAT has been found to be highly robust because its simple clarity doesn't need to be communicated to be understood. The addition of generosity and contrition have been found to make this strategy more effective in complexity. Where noise makes intentions hard to discern, a lesser reciprocation through generosity will often prevent an escalation and bring about cooperation eventually - contrition will help one correct their own mistakes. In my previous post on this subject, I didn't mention that "generosity" not only promotes a lesser reciprocation but also allows for the option of turning the other cheek where there is too much "noise" to be sure. With regards to the problem of "noise", I believe that direct "communication" should be an addition to this strategy. I don't think this is an original idea outside of Axelrod's studies. Rather, I just wanted to place importance on communication because it is a means of clarification, which can combat assumptions derived from noise.

Use directness to govern a country

Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu, ch 57, translated by Red Pine

Laozi's sage will often lead others without contrivance by their example through their influencing power of "de". In some situations though, Laozi recognizes that when you have to govern the actions of others, directness is best. Indirectness treats others as enemies - it should be reserved for its necessary application. Too often, people view others as opposition and through this perspective, create isolation over time between them and others. In many cases cooperation is a tangible choice. The subjective idea of an "enemy" will be part of my discussion of "envy" in a future post.

Myself, I have found that the first form of directness should always be communication. When you think someone might be exploiting you, communicate your issue and clearly establish your boundaries with them. This to me is a form of reciprocation as it is in response to a possible defection. It is often enough to prevent further defection as you have stood your ground and opened a channel that promotes directness and connectiveness.

Now, if things have been made clear and someone defects, then turning the other cheek is never the better solution for you, the defector, or the system. This is for two reasons that quickly come to mind - you're placing the burden on others to teach the exploiter - if others see defection as a good option that goes unchecked then defection can become more prominent.

The problem still arises that your communication may not be fully understood by another. A defection may still need to be treated with consideration of noise. When unsure, further communicate your grievance with more intensity and be prepared to reciprocate if it is not met with current agreeance or future cooperation.

To conclude this round, it must be clear to even an egoist that cooperation is their best option. Communication is a good way to cope with noise and promote cooperation through clarity. When necessary, reciprocation should be used in a way that esblishes to a defector that you will not be exploited but you are willing to cooperate with them. Always be cautious not to turn this strategy into a revenge senario.