Is today’s world driven by the game theory, and could it perhaps explain all human interactions? Indeed, maybe it could tell us a lot about it, to some extent at least. One thing is for sure, it has plenty of applications in various areas, with the general concept of international affairs being one of them.
The game theory is commonly recognised as an important tool in computer science and economics, but it definitely can reach far beyond that. Although it is a tool for trying to tackle some complicated mechanisms and processes, the general idea is pretty straightforward. All we understand under the term ‘game theory’ simply refers to the way of thinking about strategic interactions between players (people, organisations, interested parties).
It uses mathematical models to establish the positions of all subjects involved in negotiations, international conflicts, cooperation and other actions they undertake with (or without) each other. For this reason, it can be applied wherever the understanding of human behaviour is the key, which is why it is so significant for analyzing international relations, as the sum of decisions made by people. Many experts in the field would argue that explaining international conflicts requires explaining the choices people make. Even the most influential individuals and world leaders are still humans, and there is a lot of factors to consider regarding what they think and do, and what are the reasons behind that.
Generally, however, game theory focuses on rationality. It is believed that everybody behaves in a way that is usually backed by reason, and of course – self-interest. That is, of course, when we have all the data available, and we can make an informed decision regarding our actions. One of the things that determine the position on the world’s gameboard is information. Big data impacts many aspects of our lives. It can change the way we play games and understand them. The big game of international politics certainly is not excluded here. The information in modern times drives revenues, influences businesses and impacts decision-making processes. In terms of the game theory, there is no way we can make a valid move or develop a successful strategy with a piece of crucial information missing in the equation.
In the big game of international affairs, taking into account differences in resources and abilities, all the parties act and react similarly, no matter if they are leaders of states, members of governmental or non-governmental institutions, representatives of legislature or military, or simply the citizens of a country.
