The Game Theory of Now

This is going to be my final piece on game theory within geopolitics. I’ve discussed mathematics, psychology, and economics. Now we’re going to tie everything together to finally discuss the geopolitics of game theory.

During peace cycles, geopolitics is less prevalent. But as tensions grow, coinciding with the re-emergence of the war aspect of the peace and war cycle, geopolitics emerges yet again. During these war cycles, how do nations interact with each other? Is this a function of their position in the global order? Or the technology, power, influence, and information they have available to exert their will?

Game theory in geopolitics uses mathematical models to predict the behaviour of other players, in this case, nations. The section on psychology was such an important and long section of this research because if psychology is wrong, the models are wrong. We have to understand the other players as much as possible. Information, cooperation, and all the other aspects discussed group together to paint to strongest picture possible. I’d recommend going back and reviewing these sections before continuing with this final chapter. If you’ve done that already, or love reading from back to front, let's wrap this up.

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The Geopolitics of Peace

In periods of peace, the key geopolitical issues surround trade, economic cooperation, and regional security. Through any negotiations and interactions, the key aim is to maintain stability.

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The Geopolitics of War

In periods of war, gaining advantages through choosing optimal strategies, be it through military force, espionage, propaganda, or sanctions. Securing victory with the smallest losses possible sums up the main aim of states during periods of geopolitical war. Note, this doesn’t have to be a boots-on-the-ground style war. Wars are fought differently now. More on this later.

The peace after a war demonstrates who has positioned themselves the best to innovate and rise up the geopolitical ranks. Innovation drives economic growth and allows technologies to be scaled to provide influence and shape the world.