Using Visual Salience in Empirical Game Theory

Abstract

Coordination games often have salient "focal points". In games where choices are locations in images, we test for the effect of salience, predicted a priori using a neuroscience-based algorithm, Concentration of salience is correlated with the rate of matching when players are trying to match (r=.64). In hider-seeker games, all players choose salient locations more often, creating a "seeker's advantage" (seekers win 9% of games). Salience-choice relations are explained by a salience-enhanced cognitive hierarchy model. The novel prediction that time pressure will increases seeker's advantage, by biasing choices toward salience, is confirmed. Other links to salience in economics are suggested.

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