RZE introduces a 6-zone classification system---White, Green, Yellow, Red, Black, and Clear---that maps the relational quality between economic actors as a dynamic spatial construct. These zones represent:
White: Neutral, transactional openness
Green: Cooperative synergy with mutual gain
Yellow: Fragile trust with rising asymmetry
Red: Active conflict or exploitative positioning
Black: Strategic toxicity or deception
Clear: Meta-zone for reset, repair, or transcendence
This typology introduces a relational grammar into economics, enabling finer-grained analysis beyond binary cooperation/defection models.
2. Relational Scoring Function as Dynamic Trust-Memory Mechanism
At the heart of RZE lies a relational scoring function:
Rij(t)=k=1nwkVk,ij(t)+CR_{ij}(t) = \sum_{k=1}^n w_k \cdot V_{k,ij}(t) + C
This function allows computation of a zone score between agent ii and agent jj at time tt, based on multiple weighted variables VkV_k such as perceived intention, benefit asymmetry, transparency, and memory decay. This continuous function:
Simulates trust evolution
Quantifies zone transitions
Allows for strategic ambiguity modeling
3. Temporal Dual-Layered Interest Model (Short-Term vs. Long-Term Payoffs)
RZE incorporates a temporal duality of interests, distinguishing between short-term tactical maneuvers and long-term relational positioning. This extends existing game-theoretic models by including:
Anticipatory behavior
Delayed reciprocity
Intertemporal sacrifice and signaling
Thus, agents in RZE optimize not just for present payoffs, but for relational trajectories.
4. Modeling Ambiguity as Endogenous Variable
Where standard models treat ambiguity as external noise, RZE formalizes ambiguity as an endogenous strategy. Zones like Yellow and Black allow agents to maintain uncertainty for advantage, delay decision revelation, or signal multi-layered intentions. This is crucial in real-world scenarios like diplomacy, investment negotiations, and labor strikes.
