Game Theory

Thanks for hanging out with us for 100 episodes!

In this episode, Nick and Chris dive into the new phenomenon known as quiet quitting and laying flat.  Connect with us: Website: https://www.gametheorypod.com Game Theory on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gametheorypod Game Theory on Twitter: @GameTheoryPod https://twitter.com/GameTheoryPod Nick on Twitter: @tribnic https://twitter.com/tribnic Chris on Twitter: @ChrisAndrews315 https://twitter.com/ChrisAndrews315

In this episode, the hosts discuss various philosophical razors, which are principles used to evaluate and simplify explanations and claims. They cover razors such as Alder's Razor, Einstein's Razor, Grice's Razor, Hume's Guillotine, Hitchens' Razor, Occam's Razor, Popper's Falsifiability, and Sagan's Standard. Each razor provides a different perspective on how to approach and evaluate ideas and theories. The hosts also share personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate the concepts discussed. This conversation explores the relationship between science and philosophy, highlighting the limitations of scientific knowledge and the importance of philosophical inquiry. The discussion begins with the extraordinary claim of zebras in Prince George's County and the discovery of Homo Naledi in South Africa. It then delves into Newton's Flaming Laser Sword and the criticism of philosophy, emphasizing the need for a broader discussion that includes both science and philosophy. The conversation concludes by examining the danger of scientism and the search for validation in the search for truth. Takeaways: Philosophical razors are principles used to evaluate and simplify explanations and claims. Each razor provides a different perspective on how to approach and evaluate ideas and theories. Some well-known razors include Alder's Razor, Einstein's Razor, Grice's Razor, Hume's Guillotine, Hitchens' Razor, Occam's Razor, Popper's Falsifiability, and Sagan's Standard. These razors can help in critical thinking and decision-making processes. Scientific knowledge has limitations and cannot answer all questions about the world. Philosophical inquiry is essential for exploring topics that science cannot address. The intersection of science and philosophy can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the world. The search for validation and in-group acceptance often influences people's beliefs and opinions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Year's Resolutions 06:00 Philosophical Razors: Alder's Razor and Einstein's Razor 09:49 Philosophical Razors: Grice's Razor 12:01 Philosophical Razors: Hume's Guillotine 17:27 Philosophical Razors: Hitchens' Razor 21:21 Philosophical Razors: Occam's Razor 27:23 Philosophical Razors: Popper's Falsifiability 29:43 Philosophical Razors: Sagan's Standard 35:13 The Extraordinary Claim of Zebras in Prince George's County 36:32 The Discovery of Homo Naledi in South Africa 42:32 Newton's Flaming Laser Sword and the Criticism of Philosophy 47:46 The Limitations of Science and the Importance of Philosophy 56:53 The Intersection of Science and Philosophy 01:02:07 The Danger of Scientism and the Need for a Broader Discussion 01:09:00 The Search for Validation and the Role of Science and Philosophy

In this episode, the hosts discuss various Christmas topics, including the mathematics of Christmas and the existence of Santa Claus. They also talk about their upcoming episodes and milestones. The conversation delves into the philosophical and mathematical proof of Santa Claus, drawing parallels to Descartes' philosophical arguments. The hosts explore undecidable statements in mathematics and the paradoxes they present. Finally, they discuss the game theory of gift giving and the concept of reciprocity. The conversation explores the commercialization of Christmas and the impact it has on gift-giving. It delves into the concept of Nash equilibrium and how it relates to gift-giving strategies. The discussion also touches on the burden of unwanted gifts and the dilemma of giving books as presents. Additionally, the popularity and influence of the Narnia series are discussed. The conversation concludes with a recommendation to choose fun and affordable gifts. Takeaways The mathematical proof of Santa Claus is based on philosophical arguments similar to Descartes' reasoning. Undecidable statements in mathematics demonstrate that there are some things that cannot be proven true or false. Gift giving involves more than just economic exchange; the joy and sentiment behind the gift are important factors. The game theory of gift giving considers factors such as reciprocity and the value of the gift. The hosts discuss upcoming episodes and milestones, including their 100th episode. The commercialization of Christmas has led to a focus on materialistic gift-giving. Nash equilibrium suggests that the goal of gift-giving is to receive the most, leading some to adopt a Scrooge-like approach. Competitive gift-giving can create an upward spiral of reciprocity, resulting in extravagant and sometimes burdensome presents. Strategies for successful gift-giving include focusing on volume over money and choosing gifts that align with the recipient's interests. Unwanted gifts can be a burden and may end up unused or discarded. Giving books as gifts can be challenging, especially when the recipient already has multiple copies. The Narnia series by CS Lewis has gained popularity among various demographics and is considered a classic in fantasy literature. Choosing fun and affordable gifts from stores like Hot Topic and FYE can make gift-giving enjoyable and budget-friendly. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Change in Schedule 01:25 Christmas Topics and the Existence of Santa Claus 04:03 Upcoming Episodes and Milestones 08:46 Descartes and the Mathematical Proof of Santa Claus 15:21 Undecidable Statements in Mathematics 19:37 The Game Theory of Gift Giving 33:20 The Commercialization of Christmas 35:59 Nash Equilibrium and Gift Giving 36:27 Reciprocity and Competitive Gift Giving 39:44 Strategies for Gift Giving 41:26 The Burden of Unwanted Gifts 43:12 The Dilemma of Book Gifts 46:11 The Popularity and Influence of Narnia 47:36 Choosing Fun and Affordable Gifts They also discuss the importance of a customized Christmas tree. Personalize your Christmas tree with homemade ornaments and unique decorations. Consider the size and shape of your tree when choosing baubles. Use an online calculator to determine the number of baubles and lights needed. Embrace the whimsical and fun aspects of tree decoration.

In this episode, the hosts discuss conspiracy theories and hoaxes. They explore the factors that contribute to the lifespan of a hoax and the challenges of debunking conspiracy theories. They also highlight the importance of distinguishing between harmless conspiracy theories and those that can have real-world consequences. The hosts mention examples such as the Bohemian Grove conspiracy and the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment to illustrate the impact of conspiracy theories on society. This conversation explores the motives behind conspiracy theories and the duration of their existence. It also distinguishes between hoaxes and conspiracy theories. The conversation highlights the danger of certain conspiracy theories and delves into popular examples throughout history. ___________________________________________________________ Takeaways: Conspiracy theories and hoaxes can have varying lifespans depending on factors such as the number of people involved and the level of secrecy required. Not all conspiracy theories are equal, and some can have real-world consequences. Misinformation and disinformation can make it difficult to distinguish between true conspiracies and baseless claims. It is important to critically evaluate conspiracy theories and consider the evidence before accepting or spreading them. Understanding the motivations behind conspiracy theories can help debunk false claims and prevent their harmful effects. Conspiracy theories often arise from people's motivations and the benefits they perceive from the alleged conspiracy. Conspiracy theories have existed throughout history and are often fueled by societal crisis situations. Hoaxes are purposeful deceptions, while conspiracy theories are beliefs that people want to be true. Certain conspiracy theories can be dangerous and have real-world consequences. Conspiracy theories can persist despite evidence to the contrary, but their duration is limited. Popular conspiracy theories include the Denver International Airport as the headquarters of the New World Order and the belief that North Korea is a paradise. ___________________________________________________________ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Food Discussion 04:38 Conspiracy Theories and Hoaxes 11:23 The Viability of Conspiratorial Beliefs 16:11 Factors Influencing the Lifespan of Hoaxes 29:42 The Bohemian Grove Conspiracy 34:02 Different Types of Conspiracy Theories 36:04 Motives behind Conspiracy Theories 39:17 Conspiracy Theories Throughout History 42:08 Hoaxes vs Conspiracy Theories 46:04 Dangerous Conspiracy Theories 52:24 Duration of Conspiracy Theories 57:52 Popular Conspiracy Theories

In this episode, the boys discuss rank choice voting, an alternative to the normal elections in the US.

In this episode, the boys discuss Marchetti's Constant and why it always takes about an hour (round-trip) to get to work.

In this episode the boys talk about the Weber Fechner Law and how our brains are logarithmic.. Googliography: Weber-Fechner Law: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weber%E2%80%93Fechner_law Best Subreddit Ever? https://www.reddit.com/r/IsItBullshit/comments/x09sx8/isitbullshit_humans_can_smell_water_better_than/

In this episode, the boys talk about the recent drama between TikTok food reviewer Keith Lee and various restaurants in Atlanta including The Real Milk and Honey and The Atlanta Breakfast Club. ____________________________ Watch the show on YouTube: ___________________________ Googliography: Real Milk and Honey Apology: https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2023/10/31/atlanta-restaurant-keith-lee-tiktok-review Keith Lee on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@keith_lee125?lang=en "Dave Portnoy's Pizze Mafia": https://slate.com/human-interest/2023/07/dave-portnoy-pizza-one-bite-reviews.html

In this episode the boys break down the differences between inductive reasoning and deductive reasoning and why it matters.