Heterogeneous Coupling between Interdependent Lattices Promotes the Cooperation in the Prisoner's Dilemma Game

Area of Science:

• Game Theory
• Network Science
• Evolutionary Dynamics

Background:

• Interdependent networks are crucial for spatial reciprocity, requiring appropriate network coupling.
• Existing research often assumes symmetric coupling, which may not reflect real-world heterogeneity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of heterogeneous coupling strength on cooperation evolution in the prisoner's dilemma game.
• To compare symmetric and asymmetric coupling schemes in interdependent networks.

Main Methods:

• Simulations of the prisoner's dilemma game on two types of interdependent networks.
• Analysis of cooperation levels under varying coupling strengths and schemes (symmetric vs. asymmetric).

Main Results:

• Heterogeneous coupling strength significantly promotes collective cooperation compared to traditional models.
• Symmetric coupling schemes demonstrate superior promotion of cooperation than asymmetric schemes.
• The amplitude of coupling strength plays a notable role in cooperation dynamics for both schemes.

Conclusions:

• Heterogeneous coupling is a key factor in fostering cooperation in interdependent systems.
• Symmetric coupling strategies are more effective for enhancing cooperation.
• Findings offer insights into cooperation evolution in interconnected real-world systems.