📚 Learning Guide
Game Theory and Backward Induction
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Which of the following statements are true regarding game theory and backward induction? Select all that apply.

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Backward induction can only be applied in simultaneous move games.

B

Game theory helps in analyzing strategic interactions among rational decision-makers.

C

Backward induction involves predicting opponents' moves to determine optimal strategies.

D

A dominant strategy is always guaranteed to exist in every game.

E

The game tree format is a useful tool for visualizing sequential move games.

Understanding the Answer

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Answer

Backward induction is a method that starts at the final decision nodes of a finite extensive‑form game with perfect information and works backward, choosing the best action at each node. When applied correctly, it always produces a subgame‑perfect equilibrium, which is a refinement of Nash equilibrium that eliminates non‑credible threats. The technique only works for games that end after a finite number of moves and where each player observes all previous actions (perfect information). For example, in a simple two‑player game where Player 1 chooses A or B, Player 2 then chooses C or D, backward induction tells us Player 2 will pick the best reply to each of Player 1’s choices, and Player 1 will anticipate that to choose the option that gives them the highest payoff. Thus, statements that backward induction yields a subgame‑perfect equilibrium, requires finite horizon, and applies to perfect‑information games are true.

Detailed Explanation

Game theory studies how people make choices when others also choose. Other options are incorrect because The idea that backward induction only works for simultaneous moves is wrong; The belief that every game has a dominant strategy is a misconception.

Key Concepts

Game Theory
Backward Induction
Dominant Strategy
Topic

Game Theory and Backward Induction

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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