Mathematics
What is Game theory?
Game theory is the mathematical study of strategic decision-making — how rational players choose actions when the outcome depends on what others do. It's used in economics, biology, politics, and AI.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains game theory.
Key things to understand
- 1It models situations where each player's best move depends on others' moves.
- 2A 'Nash equilibrium' is a state where no one can do better by changing alone.
- 3The Prisoner's Dilemma shows how individual incentives can lead to worse group outcomes.
- 4It explains competition, cooperation, auctions, and negotiation.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Prisoner's Dilemma?
- A classic game where two players, each acting in self-interest, end up worse off than if they had cooperated.
- What is a Nash equilibrium?
- A set of choices where no player can improve their outcome by changing their own strategy alone.
- Where is game theory used?
- Economics, business strategy, evolutionary biology, politics, and AI.