The Evolution of Metanorms : Reproduction , Extension , and Insight

Axelrod’s (1986) evolutionary computational model of metanorms was replicated and extended. Results were generally supportive of the original, with extensions increasing the number of generations resulted in increased stability and convergence to levels not achieved in the original. Replications of the groups game (two groups differing in numbers and power) yielded outcomes that were mixed, as the results depended on where group affiliation mattered, for group affiliation determined who would be punished. Metanorms emerged only if group affiliation was inhibited at the Norms game level. Metavengeance increased efficient implementation of metanorms supporting a dual-utility requirement for efficient metanorm emergence. JEL Classification Code: Z13