Social Norms and Game Theory

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”.