chapter 12 Flashcards
Prisoner’s Dilemma
A standard example in game theory that shows why two rational individuals might not cooperate, even if it is in their best interest to do so. In this scenario, two prisoners are offered a deal: if one betrays the other while the other remains silent, the betrayer goes free, and the silent prisoner receives a harsh sentence. If both betray each other, both receive moderate sentences. If both remain silent, they receive minimal sentences. The dilemma illustrates the conflict between individual and collective rationality.
Fundamental Attribution Error
The tendency to overemphasize personal characteristics and ignore situational factors in judging others’ behavior. For example, if someone cuts you off in traffic, you might think they are a rude person (personal characteristic) rather than considering they might be rushing to an emergency (situational factor).
Non-Zero-Sum Games
Situations in which the total of gains and losses by the participants can be more or less than zero. In these games, the outcome can be beneficial to all players involved, meaning that cooperation can lead to win-win situations.
Competition
A situation where individuals or groups vie against each other to achieve a goal that cannot be shared. It involves a struggle for resources, recognition, or victory.
Perceived Injustice
The belief that one has been unfairly treated. This perception can arise in various contexts, such as workplace disputes, social interactions, or legal judgments, and often leads to feelings of anger and resentment.
Social Dilemma
A situation in which individual rationality leads to collective irrationality. In these dilemmas, each person pursuing their own self-interest can result in worse outcomes for everyone involved. Examples include the Tragedy of the Commons and public goods dilemmas.
Misperception
Incorrect or distorted understanding or interpretation of a situation, person, or event. Misperceptions can arise from biases, lack of information, or incorrect processing of information.
Mirror-Image Perceptions
Mutual and reciprocal views held by conflicting parties, where each side sees itself as ethical and peaceful and the other as evil and aggressive. This phenomenon often exacerbates conflicts.
Terrorism
The use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, to achieve political goals. Terrorism aims to create fear and coerce governments or societies to meet the demands of the perpetrators.
Contact
Interaction between individuals or groups that can reduce prejudice and improve relations, especially under conditions of equal status and cooperative activities. The Contact Hypothesis suggests that increased contact between groups can lead to better understanding and reduced hostility.
Self-Segregation
The tendency of individuals to separate themselves into homogenous groups based on shared characteristics such as ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic status. This can lead to limited interaction with those from different backgrounds.
Desegregation
The process of ending the separation of two or more groups within a society, typically referring to racial groups in schools, housing, and other public areas. It aims to promote equal opportunity and reduce discrimination.
Group Salience
The extent to which a group stands out or is noticeable in a given context. High group salience can influence behavior and perceptions, often increasing awareness of group differences and potentially leading to stereotypes or discrimination.
