Declarative Power, Representation, and Mandate: A Formal Anaysis

Abstract

In this paper we provide a formal framework fordeveloping the idea of normative co-ordination. Weargue that this idea is based on the assumption thatagents can achieve flexible co-ordination byconferring normative positions to otheragents. These positions include duties, permissions,and powers. In particular, we introduce the idea ofdeclarative power, which consists in the capacity ofthe power-holder of creating normative positions,involving other agents, simply by ``proclaiming''such positions. In addition, we account also for theconcepts of representation, consisting in therepresentative's capacity of acting in the name ofhis principal, and of mandate, which corresponds themandatee's duty to act as the mandator hasrequested. Finally, we show how the above frameworkcan be applied to the contract-net protocol.