Presentation Details
| Adaptive Significance of Winner and Loser Effects Noah M.T.Smith, Reuven Dukas. McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada |
Abstract
One empirical rule of animal competition is winner and loser effects, whereby winners have an
increased chance of winning future competitions and losers have an increased chance of
losing. We conducted several investigations to understand the empirical and evolutionary basis of winner and loser effects. First, we conducted a meta-analysis that provides empirical support for winner and loser effects across several animal groups. Second, we conducted the first critical test of human winner and loser effects and found that randomly assigned winners outperform randomly assigned losers in a subsequent round. Third, given widespread evidence of winner and loser effects, we formulated a broad adaptive hypothesis: rank-dependent optimal behaviour. Winners, who rank highly, exhibit improved motivation and perform better to capitalize on their advantageous position. Losers show lowered motivation to escape from unfavourable situations. We suggested that losers engage in two optimal strategies: switching away from losing settings and waiting until conditions improve. In controlled experiments, we found that losers were more likely to either switch or wait after a contest compared to winners.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
increased chance of winning future competitions and losers have an increased chance of
losing. We conducted several investigations to understand the empirical and evolutionary basis of winner and loser effects. First, we conducted a meta-analysis that provides empirical support for winner and loser effects across several animal groups. Second, we conducted the first critical test of human winner and loser effects and found that randomly assigned winners outperform randomly assigned losers in a subsequent round. Third, given widespread evidence of winner and loser effects, we formulated a broad adaptive hypothesis: rank-dependent optimal behaviour. Winners, who rank highly, exhibit improved motivation and perform better to capitalize on their advantageous position. Losers show lowered motivation to escape from unfavourable situations. We suggested that losers engage in two optimal strategies: switching away from losing settings and waiting until conditions improve. In controlled experiments, we found that losers were more likely to either switch or wait after a contest compared to winners.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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