The Evolutionary Stable Strategy

An Evolutionary Stable Strategy (ESS) is a behavior pattern that, once common in a population, cannot be easily replaced by alternative strategies because it provides a reproductive advantage. In other words, if most of the group use this strategy, any new or rival strategy won't outperform it over time. It explains how certain behaviors or traits persist in nature because they offer the best chance for survival and reproduction in a specific environment. ESS helps us understand how complex interactions, like cooperation or competition, remain stable within populations.