Re-Interpretation of the Solution Concept for “Non-Cooperative” Games

Thomas C. Schelling

ResearchPublished 1958

A discussion of coordination-game theory, suggesting that the “solution in the strict sense” of a tacit nonzero-sum game is to be understood largely by reference to its signalling qualities. Since other sources of signals may be present even in the purely mathematical formulation of the game, the particular qualities of the “solution in the strict sense” are but one of many potential determinants of a “rational solution.” It is an empirical question — not a matter of deduction a priori — of what signals can be appreciated. A theory is neither a good normative theory nor a good descriptive theory if players can consistently do better than the theory predicts by using rational process that the theory cannot recognize.

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  • Availability: Available
  • Year: 1958
  • Print Format: Paperback
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  • Document Number: P-1385

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RAND Style Manual
Schelling, Thomas C., Re-Interpretation of the Solution Concept for “Non-Cooperative” Games, RAND Corporation, P-1385, 1958. As of September 19, 2024: https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P1385.html
Chicago Manual of Style
Schelling, Thomas C., Re-Interpretation of the Solution Concept for “Non-Cooperative” Games. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1958. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P1385.html. Also available in print form.
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