Game Theory in Communication Research

Most mathematical models of communication have, like information theory, described one-way transmission of information and its attendant characteristics. Yet most communication theorists will agree with Berlo that communication is a dynamic, interdependent process. The problem of mathematical description of such a process is quite difficult because this process transcends the mechanics of signaling. The theory of games, which analyzes interactions in terms of their outcomes, is proposed as an alternative mathematical description. The assumptions necessary for such description are (1) that most communication is purposeful activity occuring between at least two participants, (2) that the participants in this process have goals that are observable and measurable, (3) that the interaction of maximum value to participants represents the goal of ideal communication. Granting these assumptions, then communication can be described in terms of an array of outcomes or a matrix which can be "solved" by means of the theory of games. Such solution represents the "ideal" interaction and the application of such theory to communicative situations should be very productive.