Game Theory: The Games of Geopolitics

I started the section on game theory last week with an introduction. I provided some examples of some of the most common games played under the game theory umbrella. I hope this provided a platform from which we can build as we tie together game theory and geopolitics.

Politics is how internal relations within a country are established. So geopolitics is how external relations between countries are established. Then maintained, strengthened, or weakened. The tensest periods between countries would exist when they have a weakened relationship. During this time of a damaged relationship, communication can be hindered or stopped completely. It is during periods like this where a lack of communication can contribute to situations that change the global landscape. I’ll cover some of the biggest geopolitical games played throughout history, and how they were navigated by the players (countries or leaders). All on the path to get to the world we know and love today.

---

1) Trojan Horse. – The story of the Trojan Horse depicts how Greek soldiers were able to enter and capture the city of Troy. This came after a ten-year siege. The Greeks hid in the horse that was left as an offering to the goddess Athena. Whether the story is true or not, the tactic of surprise has often been used in the past in geopolitical conflict. In present times, this is very difficult. Satellites track every part of the Earth. Also, as we saw before the breakout of the Russia-Ukraine war, hundreds of thousands of troops congregated on Ukraine’s borders. The element of surprise in geopolitics is now very difficult. Even with missiles, radar systems and air defences can detect these weapons before they reach their intended target. It also details how the element of surprise can lead to victories against all odds. Where leveraging advantages can lead to a smaller army defeating a bigger one. Or tactical trickery that can lead to the situation being painted in another light for an enemy. For example, believing they have no other alternatives but to surrender. Or an enemy is forced into a disadvantageous situation where they are unprepared. The Art of War by Sun Tzu is a fun read I’d recommend on the tactics in war.