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Caltech Course Catalog / 2025-2026 Catalog / Courses 2025-26 / Behavioral Game Theory

Ec/Psy 106 - Behavioral Game Theory

Ec/Psy 106

Behavioral Game Theory

9 units (3-0-6)   |  first term
Prerequisites: PS/Ec 172.

In this course we will examine game theories that are explicitly meant to describe behavior of humans and other species. Prominent models are those with level-k hierarchies, quantal response equilibrium (QRE) and cursed equilibrium. Most of the data is experimental evidence from a wide variety of games. We will also learn about field evidence, mostly about mixed strategies and application of level-k hierarchies to firms' decisions. Data include biological measures such as response times, eye-tracking, fMRI and evidence from psychiatric disorders. Students are expected to replicate an existing experiment (individual students) or work in small teams to create and run a new experiment. Not offered 2025-26.

Published Date: Aug. 15, 2025