A static theory of promises

TL;DR

This paper presents a static theoretical framework for understanding promises applicable to humans and technology, highlighting their simplicity and effectiveness in reducing uncertainty compared to obligations.

Contribution

It introduces a new static theory of promises that clarifies their role and advantages over obligations in behavioral prediction.

Findings

Promises are simpler than obligations.

Promises effectively reduce behavioral uncertainty.

The framework applies to both humans and technological systems.

Abstract

We discuss for the concept of promises within a framework that can be applied to either humans or technology. We compare promises to the more established notion of obligations and find promises to be both simpler and more effective at reducing uncertainty in behavioural outcomes.