Us vs. Them: Experiments on group identity| with Yan Chen

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

#Science #Business #Social Sciences #TWS Partners #Behaviouraleconomics #Economics #Gametheory

39:06

"So I think this whole idea of cumulative culture is a way to make humans exceptional. But it's clear to me that humans are exceptional, and seeing it through baboon glasses, I can understand in a different way why they're exceptional. But many of the things that we think are uniquely human are actually present in other animals." - Dr. Shirley Strum Dr. Shirley Strum is a groundbreaking anthropologist who has spent over five decades living alongside wild baboons in Kenya. Her work has transformed our understanding of these intelligent, socially complex animals — their relationships, their adaptability, and the intricate societies they create. In her new book, Echoes of Our Origins , Shirley challenges long-held beliefs about evolution, the human-animal divide, and what it truly means to coexist. This conversation is about science — but it’s also about humility, hope, and the messy, beautiful complexity of life on Earth. Links: https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/53757/echoes-our-origins https://anthropology.ucsd.edu/people/faculty/faculty-profiles/shirley-strum.html…

about a year ago 32:15

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Yan Chen is the Daniel Kahneman Collegiate Professor in the School of Information at the University of Michigan and a Research Professor at the U-M Institute for Social Research. Her academic work combines theoretical and experimental research to examine market and mechanism design, as well as public economics, providing insights into the mechanics of human interaction in social settings.

100 episodes

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

Us vs. Them: Experiments on group identity| with Yan Chen

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

12 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

100 episodes

#Science #Business #Social Sciences #TWS Partners #Behaviouraleconomics #Economics #Gametheory

All episodes

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
From First Offer to Final Minute: Lessons from Unstructured Bargaining | with Emin Karagözoğlu 32:18

14 days ago32:18

32:18

In this episode, we dive into the world of experimental research on unstructured bargaining, exploring how real-world negotiations unfold when stripped of rigid rules and scripts. Our guest Emin explains how opening offers shape the conversation, the unspoken dance of reputation, and the ticking clock of deadlines – showing that even in seemingly messy contexts, strategic patterns emerge. Emin Karagözoğlu is Associate Professor of Economics at Bilkent University. His work spans behavioural and experimental economics, game theory, and neuroeconomics, with a strong research focus on bargaining, fairness, morality, and dynamic negotiation processes.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Impact or Innocence? Game Theoretic Clues to Why We Give | with Dennie van Dolder 29:18

28 days ago29:18

29:18

In this episode we explore what motivates people to give, using insights from a Dutch TV game show where a live audience decides how to split €10,000 among three contestants. We discuss how real-world data from natural experiments can help answer questions about fairness, impact, and generosity - and what this means for fundraisers and policymakers. Dennie van Dolder is Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) at the University of Essex. His research focuses on behavioural economics and empirical game theory, often drawing on data from game shows to study real-life decision-making.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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From Clicks to Chatbots: The Future of Online Advertising | with Dirk Bergemann 28:44

6 weeks ago28:44

28:44

In this episode we dive deep into the economics of digital markets with Dirk Bergemann. We discuss how search platforms like Google created entirely new marketplaces around user attention and private information, what makes digital markets so unique, and how auction design evolved to match the scale and complexity of internet advertising. Dirk also shares insights from his own research on how platforms collect and use user information and gives an economist’s perspective on how emerging technologies - like large language models - might reshape the future of search and advertising. Dirk Bergemann is Douglass and Marion Campbell Professor of Economics at Yale University and an expert in game theory, contract theory, and market design. Among others, his research is focused on economics of digital markets - especially those shaped by search engines and advertising auctions.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Strange Bedfellows: The Game Theory Behind Counterintuitive Alliances | with David Pinsof 28:26

8 weeks ago28:26

28:26

In this episode, we talk to David Pinsof about the surprising ways people form their beliefs and build alliances. Drawing on his survey with Cards Against Humanity, he shares how people often hold contradictory views and what this reveals about group coordination. We also dive into his game-theoretic model of coalition-building, explore how humor functions as a coordination tool, and discuss the deeper logic behind seemingly irrational behavior. David Pinsof is a behavioral scientist whose work combines evolutionary psychology and game theory, to understand belief formation and social dynamics. He is also one of the co-creators of "Cards against Humanity" , the author of the blog Everything Is Bullshit and recently launched the podcast - Evolutionary Psychology (The Podcast) - in which he explores cutting-edge work in the evolutionary behavioral sciences. You can find the paper „Strange Bedfellows" David mentioned in the episode here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Man vs. model – game theoretic insights on AI in auctions | with Vitali Gretschko 22:31

10 weeks ago22:31

22:31

In this episode we are talking to Vitali Gretschko about how generative AI can be used to simulate strategic behaviour in auctions. We explore where AI tools can support auction design, where they fall short, and how practitioners should interpret simulation results. Vitali also explains why AI is best seen as a co-intelligence that needs expert guidance. Vitali Gretschko is Professor for sustainable Market Design at the University of Münster. His research focuses on auction theory, market design, and applying game theory to practical strategic problems.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Punishment or Pettiness? The Game Theory Behind Spite | with Rory Smead 25:36

12 weeks ago25:36

25:36

In this episode, our guest Rory Smead shares insights on spite and what game theory can teach us about this puzzling behaviour. He explains why people sometimes punish others even at a cost to themselves, and whether this can be understood through more than just fairness. Using the ultimatum game as a central example, he discusses how spite can influence decision-making and what this reveals about both human and animal behaviour. Rory Smead is Professor of Philosophy and the Ronald L. and Linda A. Rossetti Professor for the Humanities at Northeastern University. His research focuses on philosophy of science, philosophy of biology, logic, and game theory, with a particular interest in understanding social behaviour through formal models.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
When Bonuses Backfire: Rethinking Attendance Incentives | with Timo Vogelsang 20:44

14 weeks ago20:44

20:44

In this episode we are talking to Timo Vogelsang about why incentives aimed at reducing absenteeism can sometimes have the opposite effect. Based on a Field Experiment in a German supermarket chain, he explains why offering bonuses for attendance backfired. We also explore how incentives can unintentionally shape beliefs and undermine motivation. Timo Vogelsang is Associate Professor of Managerial Accounting at the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management. His research focuses on behavioural economics and public policy, with a particular interest in how incentives shape motivation and behaviour in real-world settings. You can find the paper Timo talks about in the episode here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Too Sure for Our Own Good? The Hidden Cost of Overconfidence | with Philipp Strack 17:09

16 weeks ago17:09

17:09

In this episode, we sit down with Philipp Strack to explore the hidden consequences of overconfidence. From distorted learning to discrimination and systemic bias, Philipp explains to us how overestimating ourselves can quietly shape our decisions, relationships, and even society — and why it’s not always a bad thing. Philipp Strack is a professor of Economics at Yale University with a secondary appointment as Professor of Computer Science. His research focus lies in decision-making and behavioral economics in dynamic contexts as well as in concepts like information cost and privacy, among others.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
The marriage penalty – how the church rewired cooperation networks | with Jonathan Schulz 28:27

18 weeks ago28:27

28:27

In this episode we explore how historical kinship structures, shaped in part by decisions of the Catholic Church, may have fundamentally changed the way humans are able to cooperate on a large scale. Using game theoretic concepts like reciprocity and network structure, we uncover how bans on cousin marriages and even modern Facebook data can help explain patterns of trust and cooperation today. Jonathan Schulz is Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics at George Mason University and Co-Principal Investigator of the interdisciplinary Historical Psychology Project. His research focuses on the historical and psychological roots of economic development, with a particular interest in how social networks and kinship structures influence cooperation.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Why Climate Agreements Fail: An Innovative Solution Based on Mechanism Design | with Klaus M. Schmidt 30:04

20 weeks ago30:04

30:04

In this episode together with our guest Klaus M. Schmidt, we explore the economic challenges behind global climate agreements. We discuss why past agreements like the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement struggled to deliver the desired results and examine how a new negotiation design centered on a uniform CO₂ price could lead to better outcomes. Klaus also shares insights from experimental studies testing this approach in practice. Klaus M. Schmidt is an economics professor at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and an expert in social preferences and contract theory, among others.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Globalization and Protectionism – A Game Theoretic View | with Claudia Steinwender 27:58

22 weeks ago27:58

27:58

In this episode, we explore how globalization has shaped trade and innovation—and why rising protectionism is challenging its benefits. What happens when countries impose tariffs and trade restrictions? And how can policymakers navigate the balance between open markets and domestic interests? Claudia Steinwender is a Professor of Economics at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Her research focuses on international trade, innovation, and economic history, with a particular emphasis on how globalization shapes firm behavior and trade dynamics.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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How to achieve cooperation: Learnings from fieldwork with the Turkana people | with Sarah Mathew 44:15

24 weeks ago44:15

44:15

In this episode we are speaking with Sarah Mathew about cooperation – especially how cooperation is achieved in the absence of institutions. Sarah gives some theoretical background, shares the concept of free rider problems and the relationship to punishment. She then illustrates the background based on her fieldwork: She has studied how the Turkana people achieve cooperation when going on raids with possibly even deadly consequences for individual warriors. Sarah Mathew is Associate Professor at the School of Human Evolution and Social Change at Arizona State University. Her research is focused on studying why humans cooperate and how the evolution of this unique form of cooperation is tied to the origins of moral sentiments, cultural norms, and warfare. To address these issues, she combines formal modelling of the evolution of cooperation with fieldwork.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
The Truth About Misinformation: Myths, Reality, and Rational Beliefs | with Daniel Williams 31:02

26 weeks ago31:02

31:02

In this episode we are speaking with philosopher Daniel Williams about misinformation—what it is, how it spreads, and whether it is truly on the rise in the form of “fake news”. We also explore why people cling to irrational beliefs and how rationalization shapes public discourse. Finally, Daniel shares strategies for tackling misinformation and engaging with those who hold questionable beliefs. Daniel Williams is a philosopher and researcher at the University of Sussex. His research is focused on the social functions and causes of beliefs with a special interest in self-deception, religious beliefs, political ideologies, and delusions. In his blog conspicuous cognition https://www.conspicuouscognition.com/ Dan publishes interesting essays on various topics.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Mastering High-Stakes Deals: The Power of Game Theory | with Matthias Schranner & Sebastian Moritz 33:38

28 weeks ago33:38

33:38

In our 100th episode, we bring together Matthias Schranner of the Schranner Negotiation Institute and Sebastian Moritz from TWS Partners to celebrate the power of Game Theory in high stakes negotiations. We explore real-world negotiation cases, discuss the Game Theory perspective on successful strategies, and highlight how the two intersect to empower decision-makers. Join us as we reflect on 100 episodes of insights and celebrate the partnership between Schranner Negotiation Institute and TWS Partners! Matthias Schranner is an FBI trained negotiation expert who together with his team at the Schranner Negotiation Institute advises business and government leaders around the globe in navigating high stakes situations. Sebastian Moritz is managing partner at TWS Partners and advises global executives and organizations on strategic negotiations, incentive systems, transformation, and sustainability, blending game theory expertise with a passion for innovation.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Can Game Theory help solve international conflicts? – Commitment and Negotiations | with Topi Miettinen 24:21

30 weeks ago24:21

24:21

In this episode, Topi Miettinen shares his view and research on insights from Game Theory on international conflicts. We start discussing different examples of conflicts, e.g. complex negotiations within the EU and even war. Based on the examples Topi shares his research on the role of commitment to finding agreements. He also shares how his research extends from a bilateral negotiation (as in a war of two parties) situation to a multilateral situation (as in the EU). Topi Miettinen is professor of economics at Hanken School of Economics and Helsinki Graduate School of Economics. His research focuses on behavioural and experimental economics, microeconomics, and game theory.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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How did morality evolve? - Game Theory, Evolution and Philosophy | with J. McKenzie Alexander 37:14

32 weeks ago37:14

37:14

In this episode, we discuss with our guest J. McKenzie Alexander evolutionary game theory and its applications. We start discussing different models from evolutionary game theory starting with the local interaction model and then moving to the replicator model. Based on that we then turn to applications in social theory especially when discussing proto-moral behaviour. J. McKenzie Alexander is Professor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics. His research explores the intersection of game theory, philosophy, and social theory. J. McKenzie Alexander has put together simulations of the discussed models on his homepage . Also, he is publishing a new book titled ‘The Open Society as an Enemy’ .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Why We Don’t Get the Politicians We Want: On Corruption, Polarization, and Voter Bias | with Raymond Fisman 36:03

34 weeks ago36:03

36:03

In this episode, our guest Raymond Fisman explains to us the persistent challenge of corruption and the surprising ways in which political polarization and so called “wedge issues” help to sustain it. He shares his insights into why anti-corruption reforms remain elusive despite widespread public demand for honest governance and the creative measures some leaders have taken to battle corruption. Raymond Fisman is the Slater Family Professor in Behavioral Economics at Boston University. His research explores the complex ways in which corruption and other informal behaviors influence markets, governance, and economic development. If you want to know more about Raymond’s research, you can check out his homepage .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
The Nobel Prize in Economics 2024: How Institutions Shape Development | with Navid Sabet 24:33

36 weeks ago24:33

24:33

In this episode, we explore the contributions of this year’s Nobel Prize laureates in Economics – Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James Robinson – and their work on the role of institutions in shaping economic prosperity. Our guest, Navid Sabet guides us through their core findings and shares his perspective on their influential research and its impact on the field of political economy. Finally, he connects these insights to his own research, examining how institutions affect immigration reform and economic opportunities. Navid Sabet is Assistant Professor in Economics at Goethe University Frankfurt. His research interests lie in the areas of political economy, applied microeconomics and public economics. Navid mentions the Nobel Prize winners’ famous paper from 2001, “The Colonial Origins of Comparative Development: An Empirical Investigation”. You can find it here . For more info on Navid’s research, you can check out his homepage or his paper on Immigrant legalization and the redistribution of state funds in the US.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
The game theory behind resolving online disputes | with Selçuk Özyurt 26:58

38 weeks ago26:58

26:58

In this episode, we dive into the world of online mediation mechanisms and how they can resolve disputes in digital marketplaces. As online transactions become more global and complex, the need for efficient, strategy-proof systems to mediate conflicts has never been more crucial. Selçuk Özyurt explains how these mechanisms should be designed to handle disputes fairly. In this context, we discuss properties like strategy proofness and efficiency and Selçuk explains under which conditions mediation mechanisms exist that fulfil these conditions. Selçuk Özyurt is an Associate Professor of Economics at York University, with a research focus on game theory, mechanism and market design, and conflict resolution. The content of this episode is based on his paper Strategy-proof Multi-Issue Mediation: An Application to Online Dispute Resolution , which he co-authored with Onur Kesten. --- Christmas raffle To participate in our Christmas raffle, just send an email to gamechanger@tws-partners.com and let us know which book you want to win. Deadline of the raffle is 15 December 2024.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Playing by the rules – a game theoretic view on social norms | with Cristina Bicchieri 33:06

40 weeks ago33:06

33:06

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of social norms and how they influence behavior through the lens of game theory. What exactly are social norms, and why do they matter? Cristina Bicchieri explains how these unwritten rules shape our everyday actions and how game theory helps us understand when and why people follow or break these norms. We also delve into how organizations use this knowledge to drive social change, from improving sanitation to reducing corruption. Cristina Bicchieri is the S. J. Patterson Harvie Professor of Social Thought and Comparative Ethics at the University of Pennsylvania. Her research focuses on the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and game theory, particularly in understanding how social norms develop and evolve. Cristina has worked with global organizations like UNICEF and the World Bank to apply her research in real-world settings. If you want to dive deeper into the topic of social norms, you can check out Cristina’s book “The Grammar of Society: The Nature and Dynamics of Social Norms” .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Breaking down Brexit – a game theoretic perspective | with Stefaan De Rynck 33:58

42 weeks ago33:58

33:58

In this episode, we delve into the high-stakes negotiations between the EU and the UK during Brexit, exploring the strategies and tactics from a game-theoretic perspective. Stefaan De Rynck provides an insider's view of the process, discussing key moments, the differing objectives of both sides, and the strategic approaches taken to achieve their goals. We analyze how the EU maintained a united front and the challenges posed by the UK's shifting leadership during the negotiations. Stefaan De Rynck is Principal Advisor to the Director-General for Communication at the European Commission. During the Brexit negotiations, he served as Senior Advisor to Michel Barnier, the EU’s Chief Brexit Negotiator. His expertise lies in international negotiations and EU affairs, offering a unique perspective on one of the most complex political negotiations of recent times. He has shared his view on the Brexit negotiations in his book Inside the Deal: How the EU Got Brexit Done .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Are you among the top performing managers? – Overconfidence and its causes | with Collin Raymond 31:40

1 year ago31:40

31:40

In this episode, we discuss overconfidence and its underlying psychological mechanisms. Our guest Collin Raymond shares his research (joint work with David Huffman and Julia Shvets) based on a field study he conducted with managers in the context of their Bonus payment. We discuss their findings on how managers make overconfident predictions about their individual future performance. In the study they can link the overconfidence to managers having an overly-positive memory of past performance. We finish the discussion by deep-diving into other facets of overconfidence. Collin Raymond is Associate Professor of Strategy and Business Economics at the Johnson School of Management of Cornell University. His research interests span Behavioural Economics, Experimental Economics, and Microeconomic Theory. He focuses on how individuals make decisions under uncertainty and the cognitive biases that influence these decisions. You can find the paper Collin describes in the interview here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Avoiding Value Drain in Dealmaking – Game Theoretic Strategies | with Paul Papayoanou 23:31

1 year ago23:31

23:31

In this episode, we delve into the common pitfalls that negotiators face which lead to value drain in dealmaking. Our guest Paul Papayoanou identifies four types of value-destructive behaviours and shares insights on avoiding these traps. He also outlines the characteristics of an effective dealmaker, emphasising the importance of being a savvy strategist who can balance toughness with fairness. Furthermore, we explore the role of preparation and reputation in successful negotiations, and how game theory can be applied to enhance negotiation strategies. Paul Papayoanou is a Senior Advisor with Decision Frameworks, a boutique consultancy based in Houston, Texas, serving clients worldwide. He has taught at the University of California San Diego and Harvard University, and is the author of " Game Theory for Business: A Primer in Strategic Gaming. " Paul's extensive experience in game theory and dealmaking provides invaluable insights for anyone looking to improve their negotiation skills. You can read his recent article on addressing value drain in dealmaking here (or e-mail Paul for the pdf version: paul@decisionframeworks.com ). Paul has already been a guest on our show. You can check out his episode on how to bid in an auction here or here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Playing the Gene Game: On Genomics, Insurance, and Game Theory | with Eduardo Azevedo 28:48

1 year ago28:48

28:48

In this episode, we discuss with Eduardo Azevedo his research on adverse selection in insurance markets. Eduardo gives details on recent developments in genomic advances, also in light of the significant price decrease for obtaining the individual genome. We discuss the possible long-term effect on the insurance market (e.g. specific health insurances) if individuals had access to their genome and obtained their individual risk profile. Based on that we discuss the potential for adverse selection and Eduardos initial heuristic findings. Eduardo Azevedo is Professor of Business Economics and Public Policy at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. His research focuses on market design, applied microeconomic theory, and industrial organisation.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Explaining Loss Aversion using Game Theoretic models | with Greg Kubitz 23:14

1 year ago23:14

23:14

In this episode, we discuss with Greg Kubitz his research on loss aversion. Greg shares his research in which he targets to explain loss aversion using Game Theoretic approaches. He combines approaches such as the principal agent model to be able to look at loss aversion through the evolutionary lens considering realistic assumptions on biological constraints given through our neural system. Greg Kubitz is senior lecturer in the School of Economics and Finance at the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia. His research interests lie mainly within the field of game theory, with particular emphasis on information design and its applications to industrial organisation and behavioural economics.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Us vs. Them: Experiments on group identity| with Yan Chen 32:15

1 year ago32:15

32:15

In this episode, we engage with Yan Chen to unravel the underlying mechanisms of group identity and group discrimination. Yan discusses her research on ingroup favoritism. We learn how ingroup favoritism can occur even in assigned, artificial groups, and that people with a strong group identity even have a willingness to pay to shield themselves from outgroup information. Yan also provides insights into societal issues such as political polarisation and group-based conflicts. Yan Chen is the Daniel Kahneman Collegiate Professor in the School of Information at the University of Michigan and a Research Professor at the U-M Institute for Social Research. Her academic work combines theoretical and experimental research to examine market and mechanism design, as well as public economics, providing insights into the mechanics of human interaction in social settings.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Game Theory Goes to School: Strategic Decisions in Young Minds | with Isabelle Brocas 31:48

1 year ago31:48

31:48

In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersection of developmental psychology and economic theory through the lens of children's strategic decision-making abilities: Our discussion focuses on how the evolving capacities of children's brains influence their ability to engage in complex strategic thoughts. Our guest Isabelle Brocas shares the fascinating findings from long-term experimental studies she conducted with children from kindergarten to young adulthood. Isabelle Brocas is a Professor of Economics at the University of Southern California, where she co-directs both the Los Angeles Behavioral Economics Laboratory (LABEL) and the Theoretical Research in Neuroeconomic Decision-making (TREND) Institute. Her research primarily examines the decision-making processes in humans, with a focus on how young people make choices, the influences behind these decisions, and the cognitive limitations that may affect their rationality. For more on Isabelle's work, you can visit her personal homepage .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Playing for a Better Society: Game Theory and Civic Responsibility | with Tore Ellingsen 25:28

1 year ago25:28

25:28

In this episode, we delve into the complex world of fostering civic responsibility. Our guest Tore Ellingsen explains how the interplay of regulation, personal sacrifice, and culture can build socially responsible societies or organisations. The conversation is rooted in the perspectives offered in Tore’s recent book, " Institutional and Organizational Economics: A Behavioral Game Theory Introduction ," where he uses insights from behavioural game theory, psychology, and sociology to understand the dynamics of human interactions in groups. Tore Ellingsen is Professor of Economics at the Stockholm School of Economics, holding the Ragnar Söderberg Chair in Economics. His research interests span institutional, organisational, and behavioural economics, focusing on understanding the factors that contribute to the success or failure of human groups. Through his work, Tore seeks to answer pivotal questions regarding human cooperation and organisational effectiveness, providing valuable insights for both academia and real-world applications. For more information on Tore’s current research, you can check out his homepage .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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To click or not to click: can we trust sponsored search results? | with Maarten Janssen 28:07

1 year ago28:07

28:07

In this episode, our guest Maarten Janssen helps us to explore the field of consumer (online) search. We discuss why economists are particularly interested in this topic and explore the reliability and dynamics of sponsored search results, uncovering the nuances and implications of these prevalent online phenomena. The insights from Maarten’s research (which he conducted together with Thomas Jungbauer, Marcel Preuss and Cole Williams on one paper and with Eeva Mauring on another paper) shed light on the complex interplay between consumer behaviour, search algorithms, and market dynamics. Maarten Janssen is Professor of Microeconomics at the University of Vienna. In addition to his role at the University, he is a fellow of the Centre for Economic Policy Research, a member of the Royal Holland Society of Sciences and Humanities, a research associate at the Centre for European Economic Research (ZEW), and an academic affiliate at CEG Europe. Apart from consumer search, his research focusses on auctions and markets with asymmetric information. For more information about Maarten's work and to read his papers, visit his homepage here and check out his paper on sponsored search positions.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Discouraging consumption of sin goods – taxes versus nudges | with Dmitry Taubinsky 36:30

1 year ago36:30

36:30

In this episode, we explore with Dmitry Taubinsky economic approaches on regulating sin goods such as alcohol or sugary beverages. We discuss the classical approach of taxation and Dmitry compares the approach to nudging approaches. Our discussion leads us into many further economic details: From externalities and internalities, over the question who bears the tax burden to the price elasticity of demand. Dmitry explains to us, why these effects are relevant, how they relate to each other and how they also affect the optimal taxation. Dmitry Taubinsky is an associate professor of economics at UC Berkeley and a research associate at the NBER. His research interests include Behavioral Economics and Public Economics with a special focus on the intersection of both fields using a combination of theory, experiments, and surveys as methods for the analysis of his research questions. His papers referenced in the podcast on sin taxes and nudging can be found here and here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Hidden Games: Exploring the rationality of irrational choices | with Moshe Hoffman 27:23

1 year ago27:23

27:23

In this episode, we explore the often misunderstood relationship between game theory and human behaviour. Our guest Moshe Hoffman challenges the conventional belief that game theory only applies to rational actors. As Moshe explains in his book “ Hidden games ” (co-authored with Erez Yoeli ), even seemingly irrational behaviours and preferences can be explained through game theory. We dive into the concept of 'hidden games' and their influence on our daily actions and decisions, revealing the subtle complexities of human social behaviour. Moshe Hoffman is a lecturer at Harvard's Department of Economics and at Boston College as well as an independent scholar. His interdisciplinary research bridges game theory, models of learning and evolution, and experimental methods to unravel the underpinnings of social behaviour, preferences, and ideologies. For more information on Moshe Hoffman and his work, you can visit his homepage .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Avoid sending mixed signals! – signalling in negotiations and beyond | with Uri Gneezy 22:31

1 year ago22:31

22:31

In this episode we are talking to Uri Gneezy about his latest book publication “Mixed Signals – How Incentives Really Work”. He explains to us what mixed signals are and makes us aware that we encounter them far more frequently than one would expect. We deep dive into the topic in the context of negotiations where signaling plays a major role. Uri walks us through the different effects that are at play when the opening offer in a negotiation is communicated to the other party and makes clear why it should neither be too high nor too low. Uri Gneezy holds the Epstein/Atkinson Endowed Chair in Behavioral Economics at the University of California, San Diego's Rady School of Management. His research interests are at the intersection of economic theory and application and include topics such as incentives-based interventions to increase good habits and decrease bad ones, Pay-What-You-Want pricing, and the detrimental effects of small and large incentives. In addition to this he is author of the books “The Why Axis: Hidden Motives and the Undiscovered Economics of Everyday Life” and “Mixed Signals – How Incentives Really Work” which was published in 2023.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
The Economist's Brain: Tracing Choices with Neuroeconomic Insights | with Juan D. Carrillo 27:26

1 year ago27:26

27:26

In this episode, we explore together with our guest Juan D. Carrillo the confluence of economics and neuroscience in understanding human decision-making processes. We delve into how the combination of these two disciplines can illuminate the biological basis of decision making, with a particular focus on complex scenarios like multi-task decision making, self-control, and impulsivity. Juan shares insights from his papers, discussing the innovative approach of neuroeconomic theory and its real-world applications. Juan D. Carrillo is a Professor of Economics at the University of Southern California and a Research Fellow in the Industrial Organization and Public Policy programs at the Center for Economic Policy Research (CEPR). His research spans Neuroeconomic Theory and Experimental Economics, blending insights from neuroscience and economics to understand decision-making processes. Additionally, Juan co-directs the Los Angeles Behavioral Economics Laboratory (LABEL), focusing on experimental research in economic decision-making and strategic interactions. You can find out more about his research on his homepage and read the papers that are discussed in this episode here and here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

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Feeding America – allocating food to food banks with innovative market mechanisms | with Canice Prendergast 38:15

2 years ago38:15

38:15

In this episode, we discuss with Canice Prendergast how market design mechanisms can be applied in social services. Canice shares how he collaborated with Feeding America on optimally allocating about 300 million pounds of food per year to hundreds of food banks across the United States. They were developing a market-based allocation mechanism introducing an internal currency to bid for available food on a daily basis. Canice shares the process itself as well as many anecdotes on its development and introduction. Canice Prendergast is W. Allen Wallis Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He is an economist specialising in economic theory, labour economics, and organizational behaviour.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Does opaque AI lead to a catastrophe? – a Game Theorist’s view | with Jeffrey Ely 35:41

2 years ago35:41

35:41

In this episode, we discuss with Jeff Ely a topic that has gotten significant public attention last year with the introduction of Chat GPT and similar programmes: The role of AI. Jeff shares his research with Balazs Szentes on a natural selection model on AI. They set up a model to study the AI control problem in the context of decentralized economic production. The study illustrates the importance of AI transparency as already deviating from ‘perfect transparency’ leads to catastrophic consequences. In our discussion he shares all details of the model, and we also discuss potential consequences for future development of AI technology. Jeff Ely is the Charles E. and Emma H. Morrison Professor of Economics at Northwestern University. With interests ranging from pure game theory to behavioral economics, Jeff has made significant contributions to various facets of economics, including mechanism design and the evolution of preferences. You can find the paper titled “Natural Selection of Artificial Intelligence”, which he wrote together with Balazs Szentes, here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Split or Steal? Experiments on lies and self-deception | with Marta Serra-Garcia 33:14

2 years ago33:14

33:14

In this episode, we explore with Marta Serra-Garcia the paradoxes of human behaviour in the realms of self-deception and lie detection. Marta's research, rooted in behavioural and experimental economics, questions why lying persists in a society that values morality. We delve into her experiments that examine how people reconcile their self-image with material interests, the timing of incentive information in ethical decision-making, and the effectiveness of algorithms in detecting deception. Marta Serra-Garcia is an Associate Professor of Economics and Strategy at the UC San Diego Rady School of Management. Specialising in behavioural and experimental economics, her acclaimed work focuses on the dynamics of ethical decision-making and its influence on behaviours like lying and charitable giving. A prolific researcher, Marta's work has been published in esteemed journals, earning her a place among the 2020 Best 40 under 40 MBA Professors. You can find her paper on self-deception here and her paper on lie detection here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Fortune's Fairness: The Super-Rich's View on Inequality | with Alain Cohn 40:44

2 years ago40:44

40:44

In this episode, our guest Alain Cohn helps us to understand the complex relationship between wealth and perceptions of fairness in society. We explore his innovative research methodology, which move beyond traditional surveys to more accurately reflect the nuances of economic behaviors. The conversation also highlights the differences in attitudes towards inequality among the wealthy, particularly contrasting those with inherited wealth and the newly affluent. Through Alain's studies, we gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play between wealth, fairness, and policy influence in today’s society. Alain Cohn is Associate Professor at the University of Michigan School of Information, focused on the social and psychological determinants of economic behaviors. His work has significantly contributed to our understanding of honesty, financial risk-taking, and the impact of wealth on fairness perceptions and redistribution policies. In the episode, we also briefly mention the ultimatum game and the dictator’s game. If you want to find out more about these games, you can also check out our episode on first offers in bargaining with Lionel Page.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Union negotiators are Game Theorists – 2023 UAW strike and its outcomes | with Marc Robinson 29:29

2 years ago29:29

29:29

In this episode, our guest Marc Robinson, strategy and risk management expert, shares details on the recent UAW strikes and negotiations. With his rich background in the automotive industry and his experience as an economist at General Motors in the past, Marc observed the recent negotiations from a Game Theorist perspective. He shares the key success factors for the UAW to complete the union negotiations in their favor ranging from historical developments to changes in the UAW’s strategic moves compared to past union negotiations. We also discuss the broader implications of these negotiations for the automotive industry, its supply chain, and future union negotiations. Marc Robinson works as an independent strategy and risk management consultant, following a career as an internal consultant and economist at General Motors. It was there that he first introduced game theoretic concepts and tools, applying them to a vast range of applications such as strategic product or investment decisions, or negotiations with partners, suppliers, and unions. He also taught at UCLA and Stanford and worked on the Council of Economic Advisers under President George H.W. Bush. If you want to read more on the 2023 UAW strikes, you can check out Marc’s website https://www.csuitenewsletter.com/ , where he covered the topic extensively in several blog posts.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
(Nuclear) Deterrence as a Game Theoretic concept | with Frank Zagare 15:17

2 years ago15:17

15:17

In this episode we are talking to Frank Zagare about deterrence. The term gained popularity in particular during the cold war to describe the role of nuclear weapons in Soviet-American relations and, in light of recent events, has surfaced again. Together with Frank we look at the concept from a Game Theoretic perspective and discuss the shortcomings of the classical way of modeling deterrence. Frank then walks us through his alternative theory, perfect deterrence theory. He explains to us how it differs from classical way of modeling and which insights it offers on the war in Ukraine. Frank Zagare is UB Distinguished Professor of Political Science at the University at Buffalo and author of several books like ‘The Dynamics of Deterrence’ and ‘Game Theory, Diplomatic History and Security Studies’ among others.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Would you return a lost wallet? – Economist’s perspective on honesty | with Michel Maréchal 26:44

2 years ago26:44

26:44

In this episode we are talking to Michel Maréchal about honesty from an economist’s perspective. He shares with us two studies he has conducted on honesty: Firstly, we talk about a mega-study in which Michel and his colleagues have tested in more than 300 cities around the globe with more than 17000 wallets whether people would rather return lost wallets if there were a higher or lower amount of money in them. Secondly, he shares a lab experiment in which he studied whether humans are more honest when interacting with other humans versus interacting with machines. Both studies give an understanding on human’s behaviour when being incentivized to being dishonest. Michel Maréchal is a Visiting Professor of Economics at the Rady School of Management, UC San Diego and Professor of Economics at the Department of Economics from the University of Zürich. His research is interdisciplinary and lies at the intersections of economics, social psychology, criminology, political science and biology. Here you can find Michel’s papers on civic honesty and honesty in the digital age . You can also check out his website for other research topics he is currently working on.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
In plain sight - why simplicity should be considered in game theoretic concepts | with Shengwu Li 28:50

2 years ago28:50

28:50

In this episode we are talking to Shengwu Li about simplicity in game theoretic concepts. He explains to us, what simple means in this context, how this notion facilitates application of game theory to the "real world" and what an obviously dominant strategy is. We discuss how this understanding of game theory can be particularly helpful when conducting auctions and what practitioners need to know beyond that to harness game theory's predictive powers. Shengwu Li is Associate Professor of Economics at Harvard University. His research is focused on Microeconomic Theory, Market Design and Behavioral Economics.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Picking up speed - how companies can make headway in reaching CO2 targets | with Daniel Helmig 27:27

2 years ago27:27

27:27

For many companies reaching their self-imposed CO2 targets has become quite a tall order. While procurement has tried to rise to the occasion progress is often slow. In this episode we are talking to Daniel Helmig who explains to us how companies can get unstuck and move forward in reaching their CO2 targets. We discuss what the past can teach us about possible solutions, which three important questions CEOs and other leaders should answer for an honest assessment of their situation and what gradual progress for companies could look like in the future. Daniel Helmig is founder and Managing Director of the Helmig Advisory, which supports organizations in uncovering hidden potential in their supply chain, procurement, or operations area. Prior to this he held positions such as Corporate Transformation Leader, Group Head of Operations & Quality, Chief Procurement Officer, Senior Vice President, and Managing Director in five different industries.…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Cracking the Code: Incentivising teams in non-routine tasks | with Florian Englmaier 30:01

2 years ago30:01

30:01

In this episode, our guest Florian Englmaier explores the effectiveness of monetary incentives in driving team efficiency and innovation. He shares insights from an experimental study conducted in an escape room setting, uncovering surprising findings about the impact of incentives on non-routine tasks and the emergence of leadership dynamics within teams. Florian Englmaier is professor of organisational economics at the Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Munich, Germany. His main research interests lie in the fields of the economics of organisations and human resources, where he focuses on agency problems in organisations. You can find the papers on his studies conducted in the escape room setting here and here .…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Learning from a negotiation expert - the role of ‘tactical empathy’ | with Chris Voss 30:53

2 years ago30:53

30:53

In this episode we are talking to Chris Voss. He is a former FBI hostage negotiator and has written a bestselling book “Never split the difference”. We discuss with him, what we can learn from hostage negotiations about negotiations in other settings, especially in the business context. Chris shares his approaches to negotiations and compares the importance of “tactical empathy” with Game Theoretic approaches. He also gives concrete and tangible proposals on how the listeners can improve their negotiation skills. Chris Voss is a former FBI lead hostage negotiator, and founder and CEO of The Black Swan Group , a company focused on negotiation skills trainings. He is author of the bestselling book " Never Split the Difference ".…

Game Changer - the game theory podcast

1
Let’s go to the movies! – Game Theory in films | with Santiago Sanchez-Pages 24:31

2 years ago24:31