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The evolution of strongly-held group identities through agent-based cooperation
Roger M Whitaker1,2, Gualtiero B Colombo3,4, Yarrow Dunham5
1School of Computer Science and Informatics, Cardiff University, 5 The Parade, Roath, Cardiff, CF24 3AA, UK. whitakerrm@cardiff.ac.uk.
Scientific Reports
|June 9, 2021
Summary
Identity fusion, where personal identity merges with a group, can evolve through simple self-referential judgment. This process, even without shared history, promotes self-sacrifice for the group.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary psychology
- Social psychology
- Agent-based modeling
Background:
- Identity fusion explains extreme self-sacrifice for non-kin groups, but its evolutionary promotion is unclear.
- Existing theories struggle to reconcile self-sacrifice with the selfish pursuit of survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how identity fusion can emerge in unrelated populations using agent-based modeling.
- To investigate the evolutionary mechanisms driving identity fusion and self-sacrifice.
Main Methods:
- Utilized agent-based modeling with indirect reciprocity to simulate agent interactions.
- Agents expressed identity fusion, with behaviors incentivized by heightened fusion levels.
- Incorporated sensitivity to perceived hypocritical group support.
Main Results:
- Simple self-referential judgment and ignoring perceived hypocrites sufficiently promote identity fusion.
- A subgroup can easily trigger identity fusion within the population.
- Individual-level judgment, without direct collective benefit, can reinforce group identity.
Conclusions:
- Hypocrisy can evolve to reinforce the collective benefits of fused group identity.
- Identity fusion offers an alternative perspective on group selection, linking individual reputation to group dynamics.
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