Probability and Game Theory

Introduction to Probability and Game Theory is a math course in which students study the basics of strategic action. Game theory is the field of study concerning conflict and cooperation between rational players, with applications in such diverse fields as labor bargaining, Rawlsian ethics, and evolutionary biology. Subjects covered include decision theory, game matrices, optimization algorithms, auctions, fair division, and classic games including the Prisoner's Dilemma, Stag Hunt, Chicken, and Nim.

Common games that we play include rock, paper, scissors, and Risk.

Prizes are usually awarded for winners of various games (you will get lots of candy!) and/or chips to be used later for auctions.

You will come to know and love Colin, Rose, and sometimes Larry.

The standard text used at Lancaster is Game Theory and Strategy by Philip Straffin. It is a common undergraduate intro text.

It teaches how to get what's best for you in certain situations, disregarding what's best for Player 2 (ironically, at CAR 06.2 this class was next to the Ethics class)

The members of the Game Theory class at CAR 06.2 produced the Cucumber Cult, and also spawned many games (more info on the Cucumber Cult page).

To any former GAME students, So Long, Suckers!