Computational Analysis of Joint Decision Making Processes

In this paper a computational analysis is made of the circumstances under which joint decisions are or are not reached. Joint decision making as considered does not only concern a choice for a common decision option, but also a good feeling about it, and mutually acknowledged empathic understanding. As a basis a computational social agent model for joint decision making is used. The model was inspired by principles from neurological theories on mirror neurons, internal simulation, and emotion-related valuing. The computational analysis determines the different possible outcomes of joint decision making processes, and the types of processes leading to these outcomes.