A communication protocol based on NK boolean networks for coordinating collective action

TL;DR

This paper addresses how to realize scalable, hierarchical-free coordination of collective action using NK boolean networks. It presents Gridt, a digital protocol with directed, semi-regular NK topology that preserves common knowledge of a coordination game while enabling asynchronous, signal-based communication; signals act as cheap talk and support coordinated action when interests align, with transfer empowerment providing intrinsic motivation for cooperation. The work provides a quantitative framework linking the indegree $K$, audience size, and influence via $I_A$ and $P_{ earestemptyset}$, and discusses an implementation path with $K$ around 4. It also situates Gridt within broader ethical, governance, and transdisciplinary considerations, highlighting the need for transparent, open design and fair governance to realize its societal implications.

Abstract

In this paper, I describe a digital social communication protocol (Gridt) based on Kauffman's NK boolean networks. The main assertion is that a communication network with this topology supports infinitely scalable self-organization of collective action without requiring hierarchy or central control. The paper presents the functionality of this protocol and substantiates the following propositions about its function and implications: (1) Communication via NK boolean networks facilitates coordination on collective action games for any variable number of users, and justifies the assumption that the game's payoff structure is common knowledge; (2) Use of this protocol increases its users' transfer empowerment, a form of intrinsic motivation that motivates coordinated action independent of the task or outcome; (3) Communication via this network can be considered 'cheap talk' and benefits the strategy of players with aligned interests, but not of players with conflicting interests; (4) Absence of significant barriers for its realization warrants a timely and continuing discussion on the ethics and implications of this technology; (5) Full realization of the technology's potential calls for a free-to-use service with maximal transparency of design and associated economic incentives.

Figures (4)

• Figure 1: (a) Direct speech is unambiguous, making Alice's attempt to influence Bob common knowledge to both. Bob may or may not take it well. (b) Using indirect speech avoids common knowledge of what Alice wants to achieve, but Bob may not get her hint, or wonder what she is implying. (c) Transmitting signals over a directed network avoids common knowledge of any information going from sender to receiver, but still allows for unambiguous communication. It does require that the connection and communication protocol is common knowledge to all in the network.
• Figure 2: A basic application interface for communicating over the NK-boolean network, from the perspective of user Bob. Bob receives input information from Alice, Chris, Daisy and Eva. Left: Bob's signal is inactive. Right: Bob has activated his signal. Additionally he receives the signal that his activity is seen by at least one active user.
• Figure 3: Diagram depicting the information received by and sent from user Bob, corresponding to the right screen of Figure 1.
• Figure 4: