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Simple Communication

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Listed:
  • Jacopo Bizzotto
  • Nathan Hancart

Abstract

We study multidimensional cheap talk with simple language and aligned preferences. An expert communicates with a decision-maker using a score that aggregates a multidimensional state into a one-dimensional message. Even though the expert and the decision-maker share the same payoffs, the use of simple language introduces strategic frictions. As a result, equilibrium payoffs may be lower than those achievable under commitment to a score. Additionally, under quadratic-loss utility, any equilibrium score must be linear in the state or discrete. Finally, for normally distributed states, we characterize the set of equilibrium linear scores and show that it consists of the ex-ante best and worst linear scores.

Suggested Citation

  • Jacopo Bizzotto & Nathan Hancart, 2025. "Simple Communication," Papers 2509.09621, arXiv.org, revised Feb 2026.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2509.09621
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    File URL: http://arxiv.org/pdf/2509.09621
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Blume, Andreas, 2018. "Failure of common knowledge of language in common-interest communication games," Games and Economic Behavior, Elsevier, vol. 109(C), pages 132-155.
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