Koh, D. E., Kumar, K., & Goh, S. T. (2025). Quantum volunteer’s dilemma. Physical Review Research, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevresearch.7.013104
Abstract:
The volunteer's dilemma is a well-known game in game theory that models the conflict players face when deciding whether to volunteer for a collective benefit, knowing that volunteering incurs a personal cost. In this work we introduce a quantum variant of the classical volunteer's dilemma, generalizing it by allowing players to utilize quantum strategies. Employing the Eisert-Wilkens-Lewenstein quantization framework, we analyze a multiplayer quantum volunteer's dilemma scenario with an arbitrary number of players, where the cost of volunteering is shared equally among the volunteers. We derive analytical expressions for the players' expected payoffs and demonstrate the quantum game's advantage over the classical game. In particular, we prove that the quantum volunteer's dilemma possesses symmetric Nash equilibria with larger expected payoffs compared to the unique symmetric Nash equilibrium of the classical game, wherein players use mixed strategies. Furthermore, we show that the quantum Nash equilibria we identify are Pareto optimal. Our findings reveal distinct dynamics in volunteer's dilemma scenarios when players adhere to quantum rules, underscoring a strategic advantage of decision making in quantum settings.
Published by the American Physical Society
2025
License type:
Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Funding Info:
This research / project is supported by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research - Central Research Fund (Use-Inspired Basic Research)
Grant Reference no. : C230917003
This research / project is supported by the National Research Foundation, and Agency for Science, Technology and Research - Quantum Engineering Programme
Grant Reference no. : NRF2021-QEP2-02-P03
This research / project is supported by the National Research Foundation, and Agency for Science, Technology and Research - Quantum Engineering Programme 2.0
Grant Reference no. : NRF2021-QEP2-02-P01