Game Theory, as developed by the mathematician John Von Neumann, is a strategic science that attempts to find ideal solutions to complex issues, by looking at the courses of action that players (participants) in the game can take. As a framework of conceptualization, game theory operated initially as a way to identify efficient ways to succeed in zero-sum games, where the winners and losers are in pure conflict with each other. As the science progressed, game theory began to incorporate more systems of games, the other most notable being a non-zero sum game, which function more as a mechanism for reducing conflict by utilizing cooperation, as there can be multiple winners and no losers. The difference between the two major modes games can be operated through can be summarized with the distinction of “competitive” versus “cooperative” games. Primarily used as a function of economic mathematics, game theory provides significant insight into the complex interactions in every strata of influence, to help identify the most effective solution, ranging from resolving arguments you have with friends to finding international peace between countries across the globe.
Geopolitics, as an extension of this thought, looks specifically at the geographical and international contexts of political action and thought, and the rippling impacts that occur because of them. Coined by Swedish political scientist Rudolf Kjellén in the early 20th century, geopolitics offers a broader approach to understanding both diplomatic and economic interactions.
Given these two concepts, the purpose of this blog will be to look at the intersections that they have in regards to both current events that are happening in the geopolitical spectrum, as well as analyzing past historical events and assessing impacts that may have occurred as an outcome of them. This blog will focus largely on issues like tariffs, trade deals, military engagements, and treaties to identify the economic and sociopolitical impact that they have on the states engaged in them, their cultures, and the expression of said cultures.
Game Theory and Geopolitics 