The Pirate Gold Problem
Five perfectly rational, greedy pirates must divide 100 gold coins. The most senior pirate proposes a distribution. If a strict majority (more than half) vote against it, he is thrown overboard and the next most senior proposes. Pirates prefer more gold, prefer to live, and will vote against a proposal if indifferent. How many coins does the most senior pirate keep for himself?
Related problems & prerequisites
Worth solving first
- The Rational Ultimatum 6.0/10
- Solve the Matrix 5.0/10
- St. Petersburg Paradox 5.0/10
Source: From Ian Stewart, 'A Puzzle for Pirates', Scientific American (May 1999). Statement written for AxiomIQ.