Kuhn’s theorem

E398341

Kuhn’s theorem is a fundamental result in game theory that shows any finite extensive-form game with perfect recall has an equivalent normal-form (strategic-form) representation, ensuring the existence of mixed-strategy equilibria.

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Predicate Object
instanceOf theorem in game theory
appliesTo finite extensive-form games
games with perfect recall
asserts every finite extensive-form game with perfect recall has an equivalent normal-form representation
assumes finite game tree
finite number of players
perfect recall of information sets and actions
clarifies conditions under which behavior strategies can replace mixed strategies
relationship between extensive-form and normal-form equilibria
concerns equivalence of strategic descriptions of games
distinguishes mixed strategies and behavior strategies
domain decision theory
mathematical economics
ensures existence of mixed-strategy equilibria in finite extensive-form games with perfect recall
strategic-form representation preserves players’ expected payoffs under behavior strategies
formalizedIn expected utility framework
foundationFor refinements of Nash equilibrium in extensive-form games
subgame-perfect equilibrium analysis
historicalContext developed in the mid-20th century
implies any finite extensive-form game with perfect recall can be represented as a strategic-form game
behavior strategies are sufficient in games with perfect recall
influenced later work on extensive-form equilibrium concepts
involvesConcept behavior strategy
information sets
mixed strategy
outcome-equivalence
perfect recall
namedAfter Harold W. Kuhn
publishedIn work of Harold W. Kuhn on extensive games
relatesForm extensive-form game
normal-form game
strategic-form game
requires no forgetting of previously chosen actions
no forgetting of previously known information
perfect recall assumption
states in games with perfect recall mixed strategies and behavior strategies are outcome-equivalent
supports equivalence between extensive-form and normal-form analysis under perfect recall
typeOf equivalence theorem
representation theorem
usedBy economic theorists
game theorists
theoretical computer scientists
usedIn analysis of extensive-form games
existence proofs for Nash equilibrium in extensive-form games
noncooperative game theory

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Harold W. Kuhn notableConcept Kuhn’s theorem