Fourth, imitators are able to avoid being swayed by deception or secrecy: by working directly off of what others do, copiers get access to the best strategies in others’ repertoires. Competitors have no choice but to display what social scientists call “honest signals,” as they make decisions for themselves based on their own best interests. This is the case in every sort of contest—including sporting events like the America’s Cup, the high-profile sailing race.
