Nate Hagens defines 'game theory' as the study of strategic decision making, a mathematical framework used to analyze situations where individuals' choices are interdependent. He views it as essential for understanding complex adaptive systems, where agents—whether humans, corporations, or nations—navigate competitive and cooperative scenarios. For Hagens, game theory goes beyond pure economics, intersecting with psychology, ecology, and sociology to reveal how entities make decisions in contexts of limited resources and varying incentives. He emphasizes its role in real-world applications, such as negotiating climate agreements or managing common-pool resources, demonstrating how understanding the 'games' people play can lead to more sustainable and equitable outcomes.

See also: exponential growth, ecological economics, neoclassical economics, nuclear power, federal reserve