On Rock, Paper, Scissors: Game Theory in Everyday Life by Len Fisher

In this book, Len Fisher introduces us to the matrix and the seven deadly dilemmas. He introduces strategies that can be used in every day interactions. (When used correctly, they can be empowering.) These strategies are well-known to game theorists. Game theory makes us aware of what is going on behind confrontations, broken promises, domestic quarrels, neighborhood arguments, industrial disputes, and many other facets of life.

A hidden logic trap pervades our lives. This trap is known as the matrix and it is deep and wide. There are many complex situations, choices, opportunities, beliefs, and “rabbit holes” that make up the matrix. These “rabbit holes” leave us with dilemmas.

The seven deadly dilemmas are knows as:

the prisoner’s dilemma, the tragedy of the commons, the free rider problem, chicken, the volunteer’s dilemma, the battle of the sexes, and stag hunt.

The search for answers to these major challenges to cooperation comes to three main approaches.

They are: change our attitudes, benevolent authority and self-enforcing strategies. When one becomes proficient in these skills it can add to our chances of resolving our problems.