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Emergence of Leadership in a Group of Autonomous Robots

Author

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  • Francesco Pugliese
  • Alberto Acerbi
  • Davide Marocco

Abstract

In this paper we examine the factors contributing to the emergence of leadership in a group, and we explore the relationship between the role of the leader and the behavioural capabilities of other individuals. We use a simulation technique where a group of foraging robots must coordinate to choose between two identical food zones in order to forage collectively. Behavioural and quantitative analysis indicate that a form of leadership emerges, and that groups with a leader are more effective than groups without. Moreover, we show that the most skilled individuals in a group tend to be the ones that assume a leadership role, supporting biological findings. Further analysis reveals the emergence of different “styles” of leadership (active and passive).

Suggested Citation

  • Francesco Pugliese & Alberto Acerbi & Davide Marocco, 2015. "Emergence of Leadership in a Group of Autonomous Robots," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(9), pages 1-21, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0137234
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137234
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bornstein, Gary & Gneezy, Uri & Nagel, Rosmarie, 2002. "The effect of intergroup competition on group coordination: an experimental study," Games and Economic Behavior, Elsevier, vol. 41(1), pages 1-25, October.
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    Cited by:

    1. Luis Curral & Pedro Marques-Quinteiro & Catarina Gomes & Pedro G Lind, 2016. "Leadership as an Emergent Feature in Social Organizations: Insights from A Laboratory Simulation Experiment," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 11(12), pages 1-16, December.

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