# When slower is faster

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/1506.06796 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/1506.06796/

## Key facts

- Cited by 3 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 22 Jun 2015.

## Built on by (most cited first, 3 of 3)

- [Decentralized traffic management of autonomous drones](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2312.11207/) (2023)
- [Why AI Alignment Failure Is Structural: Learned Human Interaction Structures and AGI as an Endogenous Evolutionary Shock](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2601.08673/) (2026)
- [Imprecise Belief Fusion Improves Multi-agent Social Learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2608.01367/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

The slower is faster (SIF) effect occurs when a system performs worse as its components try to do better. Thus, a moderate individual efficiency actually leads to a better systemic performance. The SIF effect takes place in a variety of phenomena. We review studies and examples of the SIF effect in pedestrian dynamics, vehicle traffic, traffic light control, logistics, public transport, social dynamics, ecological systems, and adaptation. Drawing on these examples, we generalize common features of the SIF effect and suggest possible future lines of research.