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Updated: Dec 6, 2025
12:24
Mimicking the Function of Signaling Proteins: Toward Artificial Signal Transduction Therapy
Published on: September 29, 2016
7.3K
Signals without teleology
Carl T Bergstrom1, Simon M Huttegger2, Kevin J S Zollman3
1University of Washington, USA; Santa Fe Institute, USA.
Summary
This study defines "signals" without relying on purpose or form, introducing new concepts of information revealing and concealing moves in game theory. This offers a non-teleological approach to understanding communication across disciplines.
Area of Science:
- Interdisciplinary communication studies
- Game theory
- Philosophy of science
Background:
- Signals are crucial concepts across biology, economics, and philosophy.
- Existing definitions of signals often rely on teleological explanations (purpose-driven).
- A precise, non-teleological definition of signals is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define "signals" independent of their form or purpose.
- To introduce novel concepts of "information revealing" and "information concealing" moves within game theory.
- To provide an alternative to teleological theories of communication.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of the term "signal".
- Development of a formal framework for analyzing strategic interactions in games.
- Introduction of new terminology for moves within games based on information transmission.
Main Results:
- A non-teleological definition of signals is proposed.
- Novel concepts of "information revealing" and "information concealing" moves are introduced.
- The framework offers a new perspective on strategic information exchange.
Conclusions:
- The proposed definition provides a more general and applicable understanding of signals.
- The new game-theoretic concepts enhance the analysis of communication strategies.
- This work challenges existing teleological frameworks for communication.
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