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Territory in the state of nature

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  • Adamson, Jordan
  • Wilson, Bart J.

Abstract

In this paper we examine territorial behavior in the ecological conditions that foster conflict. We develop an economic model that isolates the effects of resource skew on territorial ranges, as well as their interactions with unequal appropriation abilities. We then conduct a controlled laboratory experiment to test the predictions of our model and find that observed behavior tends to cluster around the equilibrium predictions and that all comparative statics have the predicted sign. Additionally, we find that equally strong appropriators select more exclusive and less overlapping ranges than what is predicted with symmetric resources, while weaker appropriators choose more engulfed ranges than what is predicted with skewed resources.

Suggested Citation

  • Adamson, Jordan & Wilson, Bart J., 2024. "Territory in the state of nature," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 219(C), pages 490-509.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:219:y:2024:i:c:p:490-509
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2024.01.032
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Territorial range; Resource concentration; Strength asymmetry;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • C9 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments
    • P48 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Other Economic Systems - - - Legal Institutions; Property Rights; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Regional Studies

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