Moran-evolution of cooperation: From well-mixed to heterogeneous complex networks

TL;DR

This paper quantitatively analyzes Moran-evolution of cooperation across well-mixed and heterogeneous networks, validating methods with stochastic simulations and deriving criteria for cooperation emergence in complex social dilemmas.

Contribution

It introduces a rigorous mathematical framework for Moran-evolution in structured networks, extending analysis to heterogeneous complex networks with new criteria for cooperation.

Findings

Validation of Moran-evolution measurement methods

Identification of conditions promoting cooperation in complex networks

Development of a mathematical framework for heterogeneous network analysis

Abstract

Configurational arrangement of network architecture and interaction character of individuals are two most influential factors on the mechanisms underlying the evolutionary outcome of cooperation, which is explained by the well-established framework of evolutionary game theory. In the current study, not only qualitatively but also quantitatively, we measure Moran-evolution of cooperation to support an analytical agreement based on the consequences of the replicator equation in a finite population. The validity of the measurement has been double-checked in the well-mixed network by the Langevin stochastic differential equation and the Gillespie-algorithmic version of Moran-evolution, while in a structured network, the measurement of accuracy is verified by the standard numerical simulation. Considering the Birth-Death and Death-Birth updating rules through diffusion of individuals, the investigation is carried out in the wide range of game environments those relate to the various social dilemmas where we are able to draw a new rigorous mathematical track to tackle the heterogeneity of complex networks. The set of modified criteria reveals the exact fact about the emergence and maintenance of cooperation in the structured population. We find that in general, nature promotes the environment of coexistent traits.