Game theory and urban decision-making problem

The complexity of current urban realities requires new tools for analyzing and addressing social inclusion. In order to accomplish a greater understanding and management of decision-making problems, we advance game theory as an effective tool to support urban disciplines. The interest in this study arises from the priority that game theory grants to reciprocal interactions and equilibrium between stakeholders. Consequently, the objective of this paper is to investigate how to apply mathematical modelling to point out and encourage inclusive practices in urban decision-making processes. For that purpose, we both pursued a theoretical research and developed practical tools for a real case study. According to the results, the usefulness and limitations of such an attempt could be critically evaluated. The study highlights two areas of interest for game theory to be employed in urban decision-making problems. On the one hand, it can be applied as a tool for analysis of relevant examples of social inclusion/exclusion in the interaction context. On the other hand, it works as a framework for negotiations, which aims at the maximization of urban inclusion. To conclude, further research prospects are outlined, with reference to the role of digital media as a valuable instrument to surmount the limits of applicability of the game theory.