Robert John Aumann (born June 8, 1930) is an Israeli-American mathematician and a leading figure in game theory. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2005, along with Thomas Schelling, for his work on conflict and cooperation through game-theory analysis.
Robert Aumann
Early Life and Education
Aumann was born in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, into a Jewish family. In 1938, his family fled Nazi Germany, settling first in the United States and then in Israel in 1956. Aumann completed his undergraduate studies in mathematics at the City College of New York before earning his Ph.D. in mathematics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1955.
Academic Career
Aumann's academic career has been primarily focused on the field of game theory, where he has made significant contributions to both its theoretical and applied aspects. He has held various academic positions, including professorships at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he is currently an emeritus professor, and at Stony Brook University in New York.
Contributions to Game Theory
Aumann's research in game theory has had a profound impact on various disciplines, including economics, political science, and evolutionary biology. One of his most influential contributions is the development of the concept of correlated equilibrium, which extends the traditional Nash equilibrium concept to situations where players have access to common randomizing devices. His work has provided a deeper understanding of how individuals can achieve mutually beneficial outcomes even in situations of conflict.
Recognition and Awards
In addition to the Nobel Prize, Aumann has received numerous other awards and honors for his contributions to mathematics and economics. These include the Israel Prize in Economics (1994), the Erwin Plein Nemmers Prize in Economics (1995), and the Harvey Prize (2008), among others. He is also a member of several prestigious academic societies, including the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Personal Life
Aumann is known for his strong religious beliefs and his commitment to Jewish studies. He has been actively involved in promoting dialogue between religion and science and has written extensively on the subject. He is married to Esther Aumann and has five children.
Legacy
Robert Aumann's work has left an indelible mark on the field of game theory and has had far-reaching implications for our understanding of human behavior in strategic interactions. His rigorous mathematical analyses have not only advanced theoretical knowledge but have also provided valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners in various fields. Aumann's continued dedication to research and teaching serves as an inspiration to future generations of mathematicians and economists.
Robert Aumann, a distinguished Israeli-American mathematician, has left an enduring legacy in the field of game theory. His groundbreaking work, particularly on correlated equilibrium, has revolutionized our understanding of strategic interactions and conflict resolution. Aumann's contributions have not only earned him prestigious accolades like the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences but have also influenced various disciplines including economics, political science, and biology. Beyond his academic achievements, Aumann's commitment to promoting dialogue between religion and science underscores his multifaceted persona. As a dedicated researcher, teacher, and advocate, Robert Aumann's impact resonates far beyond the realm of academia, inspiring future generations to explore the intricate dynamics of human behavior and decision-making.
Robert Aumann has been mentioned in various books, films, documentaries, and websites focusing on economics, mathematics, and game theory. Some notable mentions include:
• Books:
• "Thinking Strategically: The Competitive Edge in Business, Politics, and Everyday Life" by Avinash Dixit and Barry Nalebuff
• "Game Theory: A Very Short Introduction" by Ken Binmore
• "Game Theory and Strategy" by Philip D. Straffin
• Films and Documentaries:
• "Mind in Motion: The Cultural and Scientific Contexts of Game Theory" (Documentary)
• "Connected: The Power of Six Degrees" (Documentary)
• Websites:
• The Nobel Prize official website
• Various academic journals and publications covering topics related to economics and mathematics
These sources often discuss Aumann's contributions to game theory, his Nobel Prize-winning research, and his broader impact on the understanding of strategic interactions and decision-making processes.