Coalition analysis in the graph model for conflict resolution

Abstract

Abstract Stability definitions for use in coalition analysis are developed within the framework of the Graph Model for Conflict Resolution. Specifically, based on the concept of joint movement by members of a coalition, the noncooperative stability definitions of Nash, general metarational, symmetric metarational, and sequential stability are extended for employment in coalition analysis. To demonstrate how the coalition stability definitions can be conveniently applied to an actual conflict, they are used to investigate a dispute arising over the pollution of an aquifer by a chemical plant located in Elmira, Ontario, Canada, and thereby obtain valuable strategic insight regarding cooperative behavior. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng