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Michihiro Kandori
This course provides a brief introduction to game theory. Our main goal is to understand the basic ideas behind the key concepts in game theory, such as equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation. The course uses very little mathematics, and it is ideal for those who are looking for a conceptual introduction to game theory.
Read more
This course provides a brief introduction to game theory. Our main goal is to understand the basic ideas behind the key concepts in game theory, such as equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation. The course uses very little mathematics, and it is ideal for those who are looking for a conceptual introduction to game theory.
Read more
This course provides a brief introduction to game theory. Our main goal is to understand the basic ideas behind the key concepts in game theory, such as equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation. The course uses very little mathematics, and it is ideal for those who are looking for a conceptual introduction to game theory.
Business competition, political campaigns, the struggle for existence by animals and plants, and so on, can all be regarded as a kind of “game,” in which individuals try to do their best against others. Game theory provides a general framework to describe and analyze how individuals behave in such “strategic” situations.
This course focuses on the key concepts in game theory, and attempts to outline the informal basic ideas that are often hidden behind mathematical definitions. Game theory has been applied to a number of disciplines, including economics, political science, psychology, sociology, biology, and computer science. Therefore, a warm welcome is extended to audiences from all fields who are interested in what game theory is all about.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/0kd7xy/welcome
What's inside
Syllabus
Why Do We Need Game Theory, and What Does it Tell Us?
Is it possible to analyze a wide variety of social and economic problems using a unified framework? In the first module, we address this question. We will see that the concept of rational decision making is useful, but it is not quite sufficient to provide governing principles. Motivated examples and some history of game theory will be provided. You will also be asked to play a simple card game to see how it feels to make your decisions strategically.
Read more
Syllabus
Why Do We Need Game Theory, and What Does it Tell Us?
Is it possible to analyze a wide variety of social and economic problems using a unified framework? In the first module, we address this question. We will see that the concept of rational decision making is useful, but it is not quite sufficient to provide governing principles. Motivated examples and some history of game theory will be provided. You will also be asked to play a simple card game to see how it feels to make your decisions strategically.
Read more
Understanding Nash equilibrium
The basic solution concept of game theory is Nash equilibrium. In Module 2, we try to understand this central concept through various examples and ask the following crucial question: how do players come to play a Nash equilibrium?
Rationality, Knowledge, and Evolution in Games
In Module 3, we will dig deeper into the relationship between rationality and Nash equilibrium. We will consider the whole spectrum of possible intellectual capacities of players, spanning the range from unlimited ability for sophisticated reasoning to absolute zero intelligence. In the end, you will see that Nash equilibrium can emerge under a fairly wide range of intellectual capacities of players.
Sustaining Cooperation
The final module is devoted to the most important and most general message of game theory: rational behavior quite often leads to a socially undesirable outcome. We will first try to understand the basic reason for this, and then see how this insight of game theory has made fundamental impacts in the natural and social sciences. Finally, we will learn some general methods to overcome this problem.
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Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Suitable for beginners who are interested in a conceptual introduction to game theory
Uses very little mathematics, making it accessible to a wide audience
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Reviews summary
An accessible introduction to game theory
Learners say Welcome to Game Theory is a gentle and engaging introduction to the foundations of game theory. The explanations are clear, and the examples make key concepts easy to understand. While the course may not be suitable for those seeking a deeper understanding of the mathematical aspects of game theory, it is a great starting point for beginners.
The course is a good starting point for those new to game theory.
"If you want to learn basic this is very good course"
"I now at least feel a bit more prepared and am keen on taking more advanced game theory modules"
The professor presents the material in an interesting way.
"The professor provides an engaging introduction about the basic ideas of Game Theory with tons of examples"
"Most lectures are interesing, so I didn't get bored at all (I often do in MOOCs)"
Concepts are explained in a way that is easy to understand.
"Key topics of game theory were explained very succinctly in an easy-to-understand manner"
"The course contents are easy to understand even for someone, like me, who doesn't have a advanced math background"
"Introduces major concepts in Game Theory in an easy way"
The course does not go into the mathematical aspects of game theory in depth.
"Those who are looking to learn more about the mathematical aspect of game theory would probably not enjoy this course, as there is very very little maths involved"
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Welcome to Game Theory with these
activities:
Create a Glossary of Game Theory Terminology
Show steps
Solidify understanding of key concepts by creating a personalized reference.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
-
Review the materials from the course to identify key terms and concepts
-
Organize the terms into categories or themes
-
Write clear and concise definitions for each term
Review "An Introduction to Game Theory" by Martin J. Osborne
Show steps
Reinforce foundational concepts introduced in the course via a more thorough exploration.
View
Models in Microeconomic Theory
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read through each chapter summarizing and highlighting all key concepts
-
Complete the end of chapter practice problems to test your understanding of the material
-
Identify and summarize the main differences between a Nash equilibrium and the concepts discussed in the course syllabus
Play a Game of Go or Chess Online
Show steps
Apply concepts of game theory to real-world scenarios, developing strategic thinking.
Browse courses on
Chess
Show steps
-
Practice playing a game of Go or chess against a computer or online opponent
-
Identify and analyze the different strategies used by both players
-
Consider how the concepts of Nash equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation apply to the game
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze Real-World Examples of Game Theory
Show steps
Relate theoretical concepts to real-world applications, enhancing practical comprehension.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
-
Research real-world examples of game theory, such as in business competition, political campaigns, or animal behavior
-
Identify the key players, their strategies, and the outcomes of the situation
-
Analyze the situation using game theory concepts, such as Nash equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation
Design a Board Game Based on Game Theory Principles
Show steps
Integrate course concepts with creativity to enhance understanding and retention.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
-
Define the rules and objectives of the game based on game theory principles
-
Design the game board and pieces
-
Playtest the game with friends or family
-
Refine the rules and game mechanics based on feedback
Develop a Model to Predict the Outcome of a Game
Show steps
Synthesize concepts learned in the course and promote deep understanding through practical application.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
-
Choose a specific game, such as the Prisoner's Dilemma
-
Create a model that simulates the game and predicts the strategies that players will adopt
-
Test the model by running simulations and comparing the predicted outcomes to real-world results
-
Analyze the results and discuss how the model can be used to predict the outcome of real-world games
Develop a Presentation on the Applications of Game Theory
Show steps
synthesize and communicate their understanding of game theory and its applications to a broader audience.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
-
Research the various applications of game theory in different fields
-
Organize the information into a cohesive and logical structure
-
Create visual aids and examples to illustrate the concepts clearly
-
Practice delivering the presentation to ensure clarity and engagement
Explore Advanced Game Theory Concepts with Online Resources
Show steps
Extend knowledge and delve deeper into game theory by exploring advanced concepts through online resources.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
-
Identify reputable academic or industry websites and online courses that offer advanced game theory content
-
Select a specific topic or concept to explore, such as mechanism design or cooperative game theory
-
Follow the tutorials, read the materials, and engage in online discussions
Create a Glossary of Game Theory Terminology
Show steps
Solidify understanding of key concepts by creating a personalized reference.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the materials from the course to identify key terms and concepts
- Organize the terms into categories or themes
- Write clear and concise definitions for each term
Review "An Introduction to Game Theory" by Martin J. Osborne
Show steps
Reinforce foundational concepts introduced in the course via a more thorough exploration.
View
Models in Microeconomic Theory
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through each chapter summarizing and highlighting all key concepts
- Complete the end of chapter practice problems to test your understanding of the material
- Identify and summarize the main differences between a Nash equilibrium and the concepts discussed in the course syllabus
Play a Game of Go or Chess Online
Show steps
Apply concepts of game theory to real-world scenarios, developing strategic thinking.
Browse courses on
Chess
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Practice playing a game of Go or chess against a computer or online opponent
- Identify and analyze the different strategies used by both players
- Consider how the concepts of Nash equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation apply to the game
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze Real-World Examples of Game Theory
Show steps
Relate theoretical concepts to real-world applications, enhancing practical comprehension.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research real-world examples of game theory, such as in business competition, political campaigns, or animal behavior
- Identify the key players, their strategies, and the outcomes of the situation
- Analyze the situation using game theory concepts, such as Nash equilibrium, rationality, and cooperation
Design a Board Game Based on Game Theory Principles
Show steps
Integrate course concepts with creativity to enhance understanding and retention.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the rules and objectives of the game based on game theory principles
- Design the game board and pieces
- Playtest the game with friends or family
- Refine the rules and game mechanics based on feedback
Develop a Model to Predict the Outcome of a Game
Show steps
Synthesize concepts learned in the course and promote deep understanding through practical application.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific game, such as the Prisoner's Dilemma
- Create a model that simulates the game and predicts the strategies that players will adopt
- Test the model by running simulations and comparing the predicted outcomes to real-world results
- Analyze the results and discuss how the model can be used to predict the outcome of real-world games
Develop a Presentation on the Applications of Game Theory
Show steps
synthesize and communicate their understanding of game theory and its applications to a broader audience.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the various applications of game theory in different fields
- Organize the information into a cohesive and logical structure
- Create visual aids and examples to illustrate the concepts clearly
- Practice delivering the presentation to ensure clarity and engagement
Explore Advanced Game Theory Concepts with Online Resources
Show steps
Extend knowledge and delve deeper into game theory by exploring advanced concepts through online resources.
Browse courses on
Game Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable academic or industry websites and online courses that offer advanced game theory content
- Select a specific topic or concept to explore, such as mechanism design or cooperative game theory
- Follow the tutorials, read the materials, and engage in online discussions
Career center
Learners who complete Welcome to Game Theory will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Game Theorist
Game Theorist
Game Theorists study the mathematical models of strategic interaction. They must be able to understand game theory theories, analyze game theory data, and develop and test game theory hypotheses. This course is highly useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Game Theorist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists design and develop computer systems and software. They must be able to understand computer science theories, analyze computer data, and develop and test computer programs. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Computer Scientist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve business problems. They must be able to understand the problem, collect data, and develop and implement solutions. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as an Operations Research Analyst by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists study the human mind and behavior. They must be able to understand psychological theories, analyze psychological data, and develop and test psychological interventions. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Psychologist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They must be able to understand economic data, develop and test economic models, and make predictions about the future. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as an Economist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct original research in a variety of fields. They must be able to understand research methods, analyze research data, and develop and test research hypotheses. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Researcher by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and behavior. They must be able to understand social institutions, analyze social data, and develop and test social theories. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Sociologist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study politics and government. They must be able to understand political systems, analyze political data, and develop and test political theories. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Political Scientist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts make sense of raw data by cleaning it, organizing it, and analyzing it to identify trends and patterns. Game theory is all about learning how to make strategic decisions in the face of uncertainty, which is exactly what a Data Analyst does when they're trying to interpret data. This course may be helpful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Data Analyst by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Biologist
Biologist
Biologists study living organisms and their interactions with the environment. They must be able to understand biological theories, analyze biological data, and develop and test biological hypotheses. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Biologist by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts forecast financial trends and make recommendations for investments. They must be able to analyze complex data and make sound judgments about the future. This course may be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Financial Analyst by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
Management Consultants help businesses improve their performance. They must be able to understand the business, identify problems, and develop and implement solutions. This course can be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Management Consultant by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products or services. They must be able to understand the target market, identify customer needs, and make strategic decisions about how to allocate their marketing budget. This course can be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Marketing Manager by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers oversee the development and launch of new products. They must be able to understand the market, identify customer needs, and make strategic decisions about how to position their product. This course can be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Product Manager by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers develop and execute sales strategies to increase revenue. They must be able to understand the target market, identify customer needs, and make strategic decisions about how to allocate their sales resources. This course can be useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a Sales Manager by introducing them to the basic concepts of game theory.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0kd7xy/welcome
Reading list
We've selected 19 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Welcome to Game Theory.
Provides a mathematical introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who have a strong background in mathematics.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to game theory, covering both the basic concepts and more advanced topics. It valuable resource for students and researchers in economics, political science, biology, and other fields where game theory is applied.
This textbook classic introduction to game theory. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it covers a wide range of topics.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to game theory, with a focus on the role of information in games. It is ideal for students and researchers in fields such as economics, political science, and computer science.
Provides a real-world introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who want to learn how game theory can be applied to real-world problems.
Provides a practical introduction to game theory. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it covers a wide range of topics.
Explores the evolution of cooperation in biological and social systems. It classic work that has had a major impact on the field of game theory.
Provides a concise introduction to game theory. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it covers a wide range of topics.
Provides an economic modeling introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who are interested in how game theory can be applied to economic problems.
Save
Provides a political introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who are interested in how game theory can be applied to political problems.
Provides a legal introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who are interested in how game theory can be applied to legal problems.
Provides a biological introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who are interested in how game theory can be applied to biological problems.
Provides a concise and engaging introduction to game theory. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it covers a wide range of topics.
Save
Provides a non-technical introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who are new to the subject.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to game theory. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it covers a wide range of topics.
Provides a graphical introduction to game theory. It is an excellent resource for students who are new to the subject.
Provides a practical guide to game theory, with a focus on applications in business, politics, and everyday life. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to think strategically.
Provides a non-technical introduction to game theory, making it accessible to a wide audience. It great resource for students and researchers in fields such as economics, political science, and psychology.
Provides an introduction to game theory in the context of the digital age. It covers topics such as artificial intelligence, social networks, and online advertising.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0kd7xy/welcome
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Effort
3-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
The University of Tokyo
Instructor
Michihiro Kandori
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
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Good to know
Suitable for beginners who are interested in a conceptual introduction to game theory
Uses very little mathematics, making it accessible to a wide audience
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