Cooperation beyond self-interest

Abstract

Fairness plays a vital role in daily life, ensuring that every individual is treated equitably within society. This concept is closely linked to cooperation, in that cooperation often depends on individuals believing that they will be treated fairly and that fairness norms will be enforced. Ultimately, fairness is based on the principle that people should be treated in the way they deserve.

Fairness can be maintained among people through two mechanisms: compensation and punishment. Compensation seeks to rectify the harm or loss experienced by victims of unfair behaviour. Punishment aims to administer appropriate and just consequences to people who behave in a way that violates established norms. These mechanisms might depend on kin relationships and repeated interactions. From an evolutionary perspective, cooperation is easier to maintain among genetically related individuals, as fairness among relatives supports genetic survival. In scenarios with expected future encounters, the anticipation of reciprocity fosters cooperation. Thus, kinship and the anticipation of future interactions promote trust and long-term cooperation, making fairness through compensation and punishment beneficial.