Non-Zero-Sum Game
Updated 2026-08-15
INTRODUCTION
English translation pending.
CORE DEFINITION
In game theory, a non-zero-sum game is one in which the sum of the players' payoffs is not fixed, meaning mutual gain and mutual loss are both possible. The concept, contrasted with the zero-sum framing established by von Neumann and Morgenstern, holds that many apparently competitive situations actually allow cooperation to enlarge the total payoff. The key condition is that the payoff structure must be examined rather than assumed to be fixed, and that betrayal risk is addressed through credible commitment.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Break the zero-sum illusion: check whether the total payoff is truly fixed before treating a rival's gain as your loss. - Enlarge the pie: search for cooperative moves that expand total benefit for all parties. - Design distribution: build allocation mechanisms so every party gains from the enlarged total.
Anchor fast decisions
Because the total payoff is variable, positive-sum outcomes arise when cooperation enlarges the total while negative-sum outcomes arise when conflict shrinks it, so rational players may be drawn to coordination rather than antagonism.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E9%9D%9E%E9%9B%B6%E5%92%8C%E5%8D%9A%E5%BC%88verified
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