Skip to main content
Article
A C++ Platform for the Evolution of Trade Networks
Computational Economics
  • David McFadzean, Iowa State University
  • Leigh Tesfatsion, Iowa State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Version
Submitted Manuscript
Publication Date
1-1-1999
DOI
10.1023/A:1008695528483
Abstract

This paper presents a general C++ platform for the implementation of a trade network game (TNG) that combines evolutionary game play with preferential partner selection. In the TNG, successive generations of resource constrained traders choose and refuse trade partners on the basis of continually updated expected payoffs, engage in risky trades modelled as two-person games, and evolve their trade strategies over time. The modular design of the TNG platform facilitates experimentation with alternative specifications for market structure, trade partner matching, trading, expectation formation, and trade strategy evolution. The TNG platform can be used to study the evolutionary implications of these specifications at three different levels: individual trader attributes, trade network formation, and social welfare.

Comments

This is a working paper of an article from Computational Economics 14 (1999): 109, doi: 10.1023/A:1008695528483

Citation Information
David McFadzean and Leigh Tesfatsion. "A C++ Platform for the Evolution of Trade Networks" Computational Economics Vol. 14 (1999) p. 109 - 134
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/leigh-tesfatsion/70/