Cooperation in Virtual Worlds

Abstract:     
This article reports the results of a controlled lab experiment that studies the effects of strategically irrelevant “cheap talk” via 3D world audio communication and 2D text messaging. I also analyze the effects of technical information richness, experience with a communication medium, social distance and collective orientation on cooperation. The findings indicate that persons in a situational setting that allows them to hope that the partner will respond in a cooperative manner show a higher degree of cooperation when engaging in cheap-talk computer-mediated-communication. The results show also that low social distance, collective orientation and experience with a medium is favorable for demonstrating trust, trustworthiness and cooperation.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 23

Keywords: 3D Virtual Worlds, Avatars, Cheap talk, CMC, Communication, Cooperation, Instant Messaging, Trust, Trustworthiness

JEL Classification: C91, C99, D63

Accepted Paper Series