A communication protocol based on NK boolean networks for coordinating collective action

TL;DR

This paper introduces a scalable digital communication protocol based on NK boolean networks that supports self-organized collective action without hierarchy, enhancing coordination and intrinsic motivation among users.

Contribution

It presents a novel protocol leveraging NK boolean networks for scalable, decentralized coordination, with implications for social organization and motivation.

Findings

Supports collective action coordination for any number of users

Increases users' transfer empowerment and intrinsic motivation

Functions as 'cheap talk' benefiting aligned interests

Abstract

In this paper, I describe a digital social communication protocol (Gridt) based on Kauffman's NK boolean networks. The main assertion is that a communication network with this topology supports infinitely scalable self-organization of collective action without requiring hierarchy or central control. The paper presents the functionality of this protocol and substantiates the following propositions about its function and implications: (1) Communication via NK boolean networks facilitates coordination on collective action games for any variable number of users, and justifies the assumption that the game's payoff structure is common knowledge; (2) Use of this protocol increases its users' transfer empowerment, a form of intrinsic motivation that motivates coordinated action independent of the task or outcome; (3) Communication via this network can be considered 'cheap talk' and benefits the strategy of players with aligned interests, but not of players with conflicting interests; (4) Absence of significant barriers for its realization warrants a timely and continuing discussion on the ethics and implications of this technology; (5) Full realization of the technology's potential calls for a free-to-use service with maximal transparency of design and associated economic incentives.