Economics 315. Game Theory with Prof. Jon Rork.
Game theory is the study of strategy. This course introduces students to game theory and its application in a wide range of situations. We study various classes of games, including static and dynamic games as well as those of complete and incomplete information. We also consider various solution concepts, including iterated elimination of dominant strategies and Nash equilibrium. Numerous refinements of the Nash equilibrium concept, including subgame perfect Nash equilibrium, Bayesian Nash equilibrium, and perfect Bayesian equilibrium, are also considered. We apply game theory to the study of competition, the commons, bargaining, auctions, conventions, institutions, and political decision-making.
Prof. Rork studies a variety of issues in state and local public finance. His current research interests are in the realm of state taxation, interjurisdictional competition, and the economic determinants of interstate migration, especially as it pertains to the elderly. He has published his research in journals including the Journal of Urban Economics, Regional Science and Urban Economics, National Tax Journal, Journal of Regional Science and Public Finance Review. He earned his PhD from Stanford University.
Prof. Rork also teaches courses in microeconomic theory, game theory and urban economics and hopes to get a course on behavioral economics off the ground someday. Since coming to Portland, he has become active in the sport of curling.