Pronunciation: [nˈɒmɪk] (IPA) 
Nomic is a game where players create and modify the rules. The spelling of the word nomic can be confusing because it is not a common word, and it is not spelled phonetically. The correct pronunciation of nomic is /ˈnɒmɪk/. The first syllable is pronounced like "nom" as in "nominate," while the second syllable is pronounced like "ick." The spelling of nomic may be derived from the Greek word "nomikos," meaning "relating to law."
Nomic is a term that refers to a game where the rules can be altered and modified during gameplay by the participants themselves. The word "nomic" comes from the Latin phrase "nomos" meaning "law" or "custom." In this type of game, the rules are not fixed and can be changed, created, or abolished through the agreement of the players. Nomic is often described as a game about making and changing the rules of the game.
The concept of nomic was first introduced by philosopher Peter Suber in 1982 who designed a game called "Nomic" to explore the nature of self-amendment. The initial set of rules in Nomic are minimal and simple, allowing players to introduce new rules, amend existing ones, or even repeal them through a democratic process. The game's objective is to win, but the strategies and actions to achieve this could involve creating advantageous rules for oneself or hindering the progress of others.
Nomic is characterized by the continuous transformation of the game's rule structure throughout its duration. It is an ever-evolving and dynamic game that emphasizes creativity, strategic thinking, and adaptability. The game encourages players to think outside the box and engage in a constant negotiation and collaboration with others to shape the rules and the gameplay.
Nomic has gained popularity in the field of game theory and philosophy as it serves as an experimental platform to study governance, rule-making, decision-making processes, and the dynamics of self-amendment. Despite its inherently mutable nature, nomic provides a structured framework within which players can exercise their agency to influence the rules of the game and ultimately determine its outcome.
The word "Nomic" is a portmanteau of the words "nomos" and "economic".
- "Nomos" is a Greek word meaning "law" or "custom". It refers to the system of laws, regulations, or customs that governs a particular society or community.
- "Economic" relates to the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
In the context of the game "Nomic", the word combines these two elements to convey the idea of a game based on self-amending rules and the interactions between them, similar to how a society's laws and customs interact with economic factors.
