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Hidden symmetries and focal points

Author

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  • Alós-Ferrer, Carlos
  • Kuzmics, Christoph

Abstract

We provide a general formal framework to define and analyze the concepts of focal points and frames for normal form games. The information provided by a frame is captured by a symmetry structure which is consistent with the payoff structure of the game. The set of symmetry structures has itself a clear structure (a lattice). Focal points are strategy profiles which respect the symmetry structure and are chosen according to some meta-norm, which is not particular to the framed game at hand.

Suggested Citation

  • Alós-Ferrer, Carlos & Kuzmics, Christoph, 2013. "Hidden symmetries and focal points," Journal of Economic Theory, Elsevier, vol. 148(1), pages 226-258.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jetheo:v:148:y:2013:i:1:p:226-258
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jet.2012.12.003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Symmetry; Focal points; Frames; Nash equilibria;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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