Emergence of small-world networks via local interaction using prisoner’s dilemma game

The mechanism for the formation of small-world networks is important but still unsolved. We proposed a network evolution model based on local interaction among rational individuals with fixed network dimensions. This model extends Barabasi´s preferential attachment mechanism to consider two more realistic factors when choosing opponent to interact. Prisoner´s dilemma game are utilized to model such local interaction between individuals. The edges of the network are regulated by one simple rule proposed which strengthen the edges with good interaction while weaken those with bad ones. Numerical results show that small-world network structure could be evolved.