The Prime Minister’s Dilemma: The strategies for the game Prisoner’s Dilemma contain useful lessons for those playing the diplomatic game, including our prime minister

Authors

Erika Simpson, University of Western Ontario (Western University)Follow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-14-2018

Journal

London Free Press

Abstract

In her analysis using game theory's Prisoner's Dilemma, Erika Simpson explores strategic lessons for diplomacy, focusing on the Tit for Tat (TFT) strategy. TFT, which starts with cooperation and responds in kind to the opponent's previous move, proves effective in fostering stable, long-term relations. Drawing parallels with Canada's interactions with Saudi Arabia and the U.S. under Trump, Simpson argues for diplomatic approaches emphasizing reciprocity, cooperation, measured retaliation, and forgiveness. These principles, derived from game theory, suggest that in navigating international relations, strategies promoting trust and stability can mitigate conflict and enhance mutual benefit over time.

Notes

First published in London Free Press