Introduction to the theory of games

Abstract

This chapter provides a general introduction to the theory of games, as a prelude to other chapters in this Handbook of Dynamic Game Theory which discuss in depth various aspects of dynamic and differential games. The present chapter describes in general terms what game theory is, its historical origins, general formulation (concentrating primarily on static games), various solution concepts, and some key results (again primarily for static games). The conceptual framework laid out here sets the stage for dynamic games covered by other chapters in the Handbook.