Game Theory Evolving : A Problem-Centered Introduction to Modeling Strategic Interaction

The study of strategic action (game theory) is moving from a formal science of rational behaviour to an evolutionary tool kit for studying behaviour in a broad array of social settings. In this problem-oriented introduction to the field, Herbert Gintis exposes students to the techniques and applications of game theory through a wealth of sophisticated and surprisingly fun-to-solve problems involving human (and even animal) behaviour. "Game Theory Evolving" is innovative in several ways. First, it reflects game theory's expansion into such areas as co-operation in teams, networks, the evolution and diffusion of preferences, the connection between biology and economics, artificial life simulations, and experimental economics.Second, this book - recognizing that students learn by doing and that most game theory texts are weak on problems - is organized around problems, and introduces principles through practice. Finally, the quality of the problems is simply unsurpassed, and each chapter provides a study plan for instructors interested in teaching evolutionary game theory. Reflecting the growing consensus that in many important contexts outside of anonymous markets, human behaviour is not well described by classical 'rationality', Gintis shows students how to apply game theory to model how people behave in ways that reflect the special nature of human sociality and individuality. This book is perfect for upper undergraduate and graduate economics courses as well as a terrific introduction for ambitious do-it-yourselfers throughout the behavioural sciences.