Citation
Biological signals as handicaps
TL;DR
Mathematical proof that handicap signaling is evolutionarily stable
Provides the mathematical formalization of Zahavi's handicap principle, demonstrating rigorously that costly signals can be evolutionarily stable honest communication systems. Essential for understanding the game-theoretic foundations of signaling.
Key Findings from Grafen (1990)
- Mathematical proof that handicap signaling is evolutionarily stable
- Cost-quality correlation is necessary for honesty
- Equilibrium analysis of signaling systems