The Infinite Monkey Cage Science of Board Games - Jess Fostekew, Marcus du Sautoy and Dave Neale
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Jul 17, 2024 
Mathematician Marcus du Sautoy shares tips for winning at Monopoly, while games designer Dave Neale explains how games develop theory of mind. Comedian Jess Fostekew admits to becoming a ruthless gamer. Discussion on board game dynamics, strategies, historical origins, and emotional experiences during gameplay.
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Cluedo Chaos Anecdote
- Robin Ince shares a humorous personal experience about playing Cluedo with Brian Cox where the fun was ruined by over-analysis and unrealistic rules.
- This illustrates how applying excessive logic or adjustments can spoil casual gaming experiences.
Defining a Game by Rules and Will
- A game is a voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles, expressing free will while providing fun.
- Rules are essential in defining a game, making mathematics useful to analyze them.
Ancient Games Embed Philosophy
- Early games like Snakes and Ladders served as teaching tools embodying cultural and philosophical ideas about karma.
- Mathematical analysis reveals that seemingly negative elements, like snakes representing drunkenness, can aid progress in games.