Strategic Thinking: An Introduction to Game Theory ECON8053  - Details

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Offered By: School of Economics
Academic Career: Graduate Coursework
Course Subject: Economics
Offered in: Second Semester, 2008
Unit Value: 6 units
Course Description:

Game theory is sometimes defined as the study of conflict and cooperation between rational decision-makers. It provides a framework for analysing situations in which two or more individuals interact in a strategic setting, where each individual’s welfare depends on the behavior of the other individuals. Game theory has successfully been applied in a diverse range of fields, such as economics, political science, law, biology and computer science. The aim of this course is to introduce the main ideas of game theory. The theory will be illustrated by way of examples, which will primarily be drawn from economics and political theory. While the level of the course will be introductory, and mathematical prerequisites are minimal, the presentation of the material will rely on precise logical arguments. Prior acquaintance with economic modeling is helpful, but is not a requirement for the course.

Learning Outcomes: Game theory provides a framework for analysing situations in which two or more individuals interact in a strategic setting, where each individual's welfare depends on the behavior of the other individuals. The aim of this course is to introduce the main ideas of game theory. The theory will be illustrated by way of examples, which will primarily be drawn from economics and political science. While the level of the course will be introductory, the presentation of the material will rely on precise logical arguments. Prior acquaintance with economic modeling is helpful, but is not a requirement for the course.
Indicative Assessment:
  • Problem sets (10%)
  • Midterm Exam 1 (15%)
  • Midterm Exam 2 (15%)
  • Final Exam (60%)
Workload: 12 hours per week
Course Classification(s): AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest: Economics
Eligibility: At least an average of 65% (or equivalent) in the final two years of an Australian undergraduate degree with introductory level courses in Economics, Statistics and Econometrics
Prescribed Texts: See Course Outline:  http://teaching.fec.anu.edu.au/ECON2141/ECON2141_2142_8053.pdf
Preliminary Reading: See Course Outline:  http://teaching.fec.anu.edu.au/ECON2141/ECON2141_2142_8053.pdf
Indicative Reading List: See Course Outline:  http://teaching.fec.anu.edu.au/ECON2141/ECON2141_2142_8053.pdf
Programs: Graduate Diploma in Applied Economics, Graduate Diploma in Economics, Master of Economic Policy, Master of Applied Economics, Master of International and Development Economics, Master of Economics of Development, Graduate Diploma in Economic Policy, and Master of Economics
Other Information:

For further information please refer to http://ecocomm.anu.edu.au/courses/course.asp?code=ECON8053

Academic Contact: See http://teaching.fec.anu.edu.au/ECON2141/