The application of game theory in the study of international relations

An introduction to and the use of game theory in the study of international relations has been useful, but not altogether effective. Game theoretic concepts are both difficult to understand and apply. Past efforts have centered on the use of Prisoners' Dilemma and Chicken as illustrations in a deductive context. Included is a review of the differences between deductive and inductive reasoning and how they are utilized in problem solving, a brief review of game theoretic concepts, how the social sciences applied game theory, and how game theory has been utilized by international relations theorists. In international relations, the methodology has been largely deductive. Games such as Prisoners' Dilemma and Chicken have become nearly paradigmatic in describing interactions between states. The use of inductive reasoning is advocated, hopefully generating more useful utilization of game theory in the study of international relations.