How to Tap the Power of Games to Live a Better Life | Kelly Clancy

Game Theory

Game theory, a mathematical framework developed by John von Neumann and Oscar Morgenstern, seeks to understand human decision-making by defining game characteristics like zero-sum, positive-sum, and negative-sum games. Kelly Clancy explains that while traditional game theory often focuses on zero-sum scenarios, where one player's gain is another's loss, newer approaches like mechanism design aim to foster cooperation and truthful behavior by altering game rules 1. This concept has influenced various fields, including market and voting system designs, by encouraging desired behaviors through strategic rule-setting.

The scoring system is going to dictate how the players behave.

--- Kelly Clancy

This approach highlights the potential for games to shape societal behaviors, as seen in technologies like dating apps and advertising, which subtly manipulate user actions 2.

   

Game Models

The contrast between zero-sum and cooperative models in game theory reveals significant impacts on behavior. Jonathan Fields and Kelly discuss how zero-sum games, like chess, emphasize competition, often leading to siloed efforts and secrecy, as seen in research environments 3. Conversely, cooperative models encourage collaboration, as exemplified by initiatives like Habitat for Humanity, where collective effort leads to shared success 1.

Humans don't work like that. We take a lot of reward from playing on its own. We don't really care about winning that much.

--- Kelly Clancy

This shift from competitive to cooperative frameworks can transform societal interactions, promoting mutual benefit over individual gain.

   

Mechanism Design

Mechanism design in games offers a pathway to promote collaboration and positive behaviors. Kelly Clancy highlights how this approach can create environments where winning equates to continued participation, aligning with the concept of infinite games 4. Unlike finite games, where the goal is to win, infinite games focus on sustaining play and fostering ongoing engagement.

Winning is just to get to play more. And I mean, evolution is that life is that.

--- Kelly Clancy

This philosophy encourages players to inhabit their true selves, avoiding behaviors that conflict with personal values, and underscores the potential for games to facilitate personal growth and societal harmony 1.