Games and Decisions

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This book serves as an accessible introduction to game theory and decision-making models for non-mathematicians. It presents a clear and detailed exposition of key ideas without the burden of technical mathematical details. The text offers a comprehensive conceptual framework with a social science perspective, covering decision theory, modern utility theory, statistical decision theory, and social welfare functions. The initial chapters introduce game theory and utility theory, while subsequent chapters delve into two-person zero-sum games, nonzero-sum games, and address gaps in the von Neumann-Morgenstern theory. Later chapters explore "n-"person games, incorporating both foundational concepts and newer developments. The final chapters focus on individual and group decision-making processes. Additionally, eight appendixes provide proofs of the minimax theorem, geometric interpretations of two-person zero-sum games, solution procedures, infinite games, sequential compounding, and linear programming. Thought-provoking and clearly articulated, this resource is tailored for those without advanced mathematical training, making it valuable for economists, political scientists, sociologists, experimental psychologists, management scientists, philosophers, and statisticians, as well as students in mathematical game theory and linear programming courses.