Introduction to Game Theory and Mechanism Design

How do we predict decisions when multiple independent parties interact, and how can we design rules that lead to the best collective outcome? Game theory and mechanism design provide the analytical framework to solve these strategic challenges.\n\nThis course guides you from the absolute basics of strategic decision-making to the principles of designing fair and efficient systems. You will learn to model competitive scenarios, predict outcomes, and draft rules that incentivize honest behavior, preparing you to apply these concepts to modern digital auctions and market platforms.\n\nWhat you'll learn:\n- Understand foundational concepts of strategic games, payoffs, and Nash equilibrium.\n- Analyze simultaneous and sequential games using logical frameworks.\n- Design matching markets and voting systems that guarantee stable outcomes.\n- Apply classic auction designs and incentive-compatible mechanisms.\n- Explore modern applications of algorithmic mechanism design in digital platforms.\n- Practice solving strategic scenarios through structured written exercises.\n\nYou will start with essential terminology, learning how to define players, strategies, and utilities before moving into dominant strategies and incentive compatibility. By studying clear written explanations and practical scenarios, you will build a robust mental model of strategic design.\n\nThis course is designed for beginners in economics, computer science, or business analysis, with no prior game theory experience required.\n\nBegin your journey into strategic thinking and system design today.