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363-0558-00L 3 Credits MSC D-MTEC
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Introduction to Game Theory: Strategic and Cooperative Thinking

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Barton Lee
It is recommended to take 363-0503-00L Principles of Microeconomics first.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:16:52

Abstract

The goal of the course is to learn how to think about strategic interactions in a structured way. The course will introduce students to the basic tools from game theory and how to apply game theory to a variety of real-world situations within economics, politics, and business.

Objective

Students will learn and master the basic tools of game theory. They will learn how to apply these tools to analyze real-world strategic interactions within economics, politics, and business.

Content

The course will cover static and dynamic games and games with imperfect and/or incomplete information. Equilibrium concepts such as Nash Equilibrium, Subgame-Perfect Equilibrium, and Perfect Bayesian Equilibrium will be introduced. Although the content is predominately theoretical, throughout the course real-world examples and applications within economics, politics, and business will be explored. A variety of cutting-edge research papers will be referenced and discussed in the course. The theoretical content is predominately (but not exclusively) drawn from: Gibbons, R.S., 1992. Game theory for applied economists. Princeton University Press. The lecture will be in English. Instruction will take several forms such as lectures, exercises (graded problem sets), and experiencing some of the games discussed in the lectures. The course will start from scratch with the most basic game-theoretic concepts. However, progress will be swift, and the course will cover more advanced concepts such as signaling games and Perfect Bayesian Equilibrium. A basic level of mathematical competence and maturity is assumed.

Resources

Lecture Notes

For inquiries and questions regarding the course organization please send an email to the lecturer, Prof. Dr. Barton Lee ([email protected]), or the teaching assistant, Dr. Benjamin Blumenthal ([email protected]).

Literature

A variety of cutting-edge research papers will be referenced and discussed in the course. The theoretical content is predominately (but not exclusively) drawn from: Gibbons, R.S., 1992. Game theory for applied economists. Princeton University Press.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
Only pen, pencil and eraser allowed
This course includes an obligatory assignment (obligatorisches Leistungselement), four graded problem sets. The final grade will be the weighted average of the exam (60%) and the problem sets (40%).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Introduction to Game Theory: Strategic and Cooperative Thinking
  • Mon 10:15-12:00 (IFW A 32.1)
2 h weekly

Offered In