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Game-theoretic Consistency and International Relations

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  • Roger B. Myerson

    (Department of Economics, University of Chicago, 1126 East, 59th Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA myerson@uchicago.edu)

Abstract

De Figueiredo et al. (this issue) have argued that, to model the American Revolution, game-theoretic consistency assumptions need to be relaxed. In response, we review the methodological rationale for such consistency assumptions, and we find a possible exception in international relations. Any inconsistent theory of games would be invalidated by rational players who are intelligent enough to understand it. Furthermore, within any society, culturally defined principles of justice and legitimate authority serve to generate consistent expectations in games, and these coordinating principles are strengthened by socially constructing them as corollaries of universal natural law. Such universalization of local justice and authority, although a force for local consistency, is a force for inconsistency of beliefs in international relations. In new situations that transcend the recognized domain of international boundaries, people in each society may systematically underestimate the extent to which other societies hold different views of legitimate justice.

Suggested Citation

  • Roger B. Myerson, 2006. "Game-theoretic Consistency and International Relations," Journal of Theoretical Politics, , vol. 18(4), pages 416-433, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jothpo:v:18:y:2006:i:4:p:416-433
    DOI: 10.1177/0951629806067452
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Lupia, Arthur & Levine, Adam Seth & Zharinova, Natasha, 2010. "When Should Political Scientists Use the Self-Confirming Equilibrium Concept? Benefits, Costs, and an Application to Jury Theorems," Political Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 18(1), pages 103-123, January.
    2. Roger B. Myerson, 2009. "Learning from Schelling's Strategy of Conflict," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 47(4), pages 1109-1125, December.

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