Weak reciprocity alone cannot explain peer punishment

Behav Brain Sci. 2012 Feb;35(1):21-2. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X11001191.

Abstract

The claims about (1) the lack of empirical support for a model of strong reciprocation and (2) the irrelevant empirical role of costly punishment to support cooperation in the field need qualifications. The interpretation of field evidence is not straightforward, and other-regarding preferences are also likely to play a role in the field.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Cooperative Behavior*
  • Game Theory*
  • Humans
  • Models, Psychological*
  • Punishment / psychology*
  • Social Behavior*