Internal network dynamics prolong a losing battle

TL;DR

This paper reveals that internal network dynamics can prolong the survival of a minority group in a fight-to-the-death scenario, contrary to traditional mass action theory, with implications for medical and social interventions.

Contribution

It introduces an analytic theory demonstrating how internal network dynamics can extend the duration of losing battles, challenging conventional wisdom.

Findings

Internal network dynamics can prolong minority survival.

The theory explains previously unexplained data.

Interventions can modify battle durations.

Abstract

Fights-to-the-death occur in many natural, medical and commercial settings. Standard mass action theory and conventional wisdom imply that the minority (i.e. smaller) group's survival time decreases as its relative initial size decreases, in the absence of replenishment. Here we show that the opposite actually happens, if the minority group features internal network dynamics. Our analytic theory provides a unified quantitative explanation for a range of previously unexplained data, and predicts how losing battles in a medical or social context might be extended or shortened using third-party intervention.