Overarming America: Game theory explores how fear and social pressure drive gun purchases
phys.org
Game theory reveals how fear and social pressure trap Americans in a arms race where everyone ends up less safe — even as each individual gun purchase feels perfectly rational.
Game TheoryNash EquilibriumPrisoner's DilemmaTragedy of the Commons
Theory Briefing
- In an overarmed society, collective harm from widespread gun ownership outweighs the personal security benefit any single buyer gains.
- Game theory frames gun purchasing as a Nash Equilibrium trap — each individual acts rationally, yet the group outcome is collectively irrational.
- Social pressure and fear of others being armed act as forcing functions, driving purchases even when owners would prefer a disarmed status quo.