Michael Suk-Young Chwe
Michael Suk-Young Chwe is a political scientist and professor at UCLA, specializing in game theory, collective behavior, and social coordination. His interdisciplinary work applies mathematical models to culture, politics, and communication. In Rational Ritual, Chwe examines how rituals and shared knowledge foster coordination in societies. He later authored Jane Austen, Game Theorist, drawing connections between classic literature and strategic thinking. Chwe’s writing is marked by its originality and accessibility, bridging formal theory with real-world phenomena. His insights are particularly relevant to understanding social media, advertising, and political mobilization—where shared experiences and collective awareness play critical roles.
Rational Ritual explores how rituals—from presidential inaugurations to sports events—create common knowledge, a shared awareness that everyone knows everyone knows. Chwe, a game theorist, argues that these shared experiences are vital for coordination in society. By applying game theory to cultural rituals, he sheds light on why such practices persist and how they help societies function. The book offers unique insights into advertising, politics, and social networks. Zuckerberg recommended Rational Ritual for its relevance to online platforms, where creating and managing shared experiences is key. It’s an intellectually stimulating read for anyone interested in the intersection of culture and logic.