A knowledge based approach to collaboration in basic research

This paper suggests a knowledge based approach to the formation of collaboration networks in basic research. Though mainly focused on foundations, it provides the example of a set of knowledge distributions supporting effort allocations that are pairwise equilibria of the collaboration game. These equilibrium outcomes produce a star-like collaboration network. Restrictions yielding the small world property are also specified. A closing remark expands on the knowledge growth maximizing allocation of effort, compared to the allocation produced by private incentives.