Models of Continuous Dynamics on the 2-Simplex and Applications in Economics

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the models of continuous dynamics on the 2-simplex that arise when different qualitative restrictions are imposed on the (continuous) functions that generate the dynamics on the 2-simplex. We consider three types of qualitative restrictions: inequality (or set-theoretical) conditions, monotonicity/curvature (or differential-geometrical) conditions, and topological conditions (referring to (transversal) non-(self-)intersection of trajectories). We discuss the implications of these restrictions for transitional and limit dynamics on the 2-simplex and the wide range of potential and existing applications of the resulting system-theoretical models in economics and, in particular, in economic growth and development theory.