Evolutionary game theory
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Evolutionary game theory is the application of game theory to evolving populations in biology. It defines a framework of contests, strategies, and analytics into which Darwinian competition can be mod
The mathematical biologist John Maynard Smith modelled evolutionary games.
Solution of the hawk dove game for V=2, C=10 and fitness starting base B=4. The fitness of a hawk for different population mixes is plotted as a black line, that of dove in red. An ESS (a stationary point) will exist when hawk and dove fitness are equal: Hawks are 20% of population and doves are 80% of the population.
War of attrition for different values of resource. Note the time it takes for an accumulation of 50% of the contestants to quit vs. the value (V) of resource contested for.
Dung fly (Scatophaga stercoraria) – a war of attrition player
Handicap principle
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The handicap principle is a hypothesis proposed by the Israeli biologist Amotz Zahavi in 1975. It is meant to explain how "signal selection" during mate choice may lead to "honest" or reliable signall
The peacock tail in flight, a classic example of what Amotz Zahavi proposed was a handicapped signal of male quality
Luxury cars and other "Veblen goods" may be an example of the handicap principle in humans.
Impala stotting, a behaviour that may serve as a pursuit deterrence signal to predators