Game theory (/ɡeɪm ˈθɪəri/) is the study of mathematical models used to analyze and predict strategic interactions between individuals or groups. The word "game" refers to any situation where there are multiple players with competing interests, and "theory" refers to the mathematical framework used to analyze these interactions. The spelling of the word "game theory" follows standard English orthography, with the initial sound /ɡeɪm/ representing the word "game" and the second sound /θɪəri/ representing the word "theory."
Game theory is a branch of mathematics and economics that studies the strategic decisions made by rational individuals or entities in competitive or cooperative situations. It focuses on the analysis of decision-making under conditions of conflict, uncertainty, and interdependence. The primary objective of game theory is to understand how players, also known as participants, will behave within the framework of a game, which can be any social or economic interaction.
Game theory involves modeling and analyzing decision-making processes to determine optimal strategies and outcomes in various scenarios. It considers the interests, preferences, and strategic actions of each participant, analyzing the consequences and payoffs associated with their choices. Through mathematical calculations and simulations, game theory examines multiple possible outcomes, allowing for the prediction and understanding of strategic behavior, negotiations, cooperation, and competition.
One fundamental concept in game theory is the notion of equilibrium. Equilibrium refers to a state where no participant has an incentive to change their strategy, given the actions of other participants. Common examples of equilibrium in game theory are the Nash equilibrium and the mixed strategy equilibrium.
Game theory has numerous applications in various fields such as economics, political science, biology, psychology, and computer science. It aids in understanding and analyzing decision-making in situations like pricing competition between firms, international relations, auctions, bargaining, voting systems, and even evolutionary biology. By providing insights into the strategic behavior of individuals in these settings, game theory helps professionals make sound decisions and predict outcomes in complex scenarios.
The term "game theory" was coined in the 20th century by mathematician and economist John von Neumann. It originated from von Neumann's book "Theory of Games and Economic Behavior", which he co-authored with economist Oskar Morgenstern in 1944. The word "game" refers to the study of strategic decision-making, interactions, and conflicts between rational players, while "theory" signifies the development and analysis of mathematical models to understand these dynamics.