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Science & Morality

The Prisoner’s Dilemma and The Evolution of Morality

Brian King seeks the possible evolution of morality through computer simulations.

The Prisoner’s Dilemma is a game that you win by getting the lowest number of years in jail. Imagine you are one of two people who have robbed a diamond merchant. You and your accomplice are both apprehended by the police, and held in separate cells for questioning. The investigating officer offers both of you the same deal. If you confess and thereby incriminate the other, and the other remains silent, then for helping with enquiries your sentence will be reduced to one year, and your silent accomplice will get four years.

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