Game theory applications in humanitarian operations: a review
Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management
ISSN: 2042-6747
Article publication date: 6 May 2014
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to summarize ways in which game theory has been or could be utilized within the humanitarian sector and to identify future research opportunities in this field. Game theory is a tool for modeling systems in which multiple decision makers act according to their own objectives and where individual choices affect system outcomes. Humanitarian logistics systems are often characterized by the presence of many such decision makers.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors synthesize literature from operations research, humanitarian logistics, and the political and management sciences that describes either game theory models or settings in which game theory has the potential to contribute practical insights. Papers are categorized based on the types of decision makers highlighted and the facets of humanitarian operations described.
Findings
The review of literature indicates that applications of game theory to humanitarian supply chain systems are limited to date but that many components of humanitarian operations can benefit from such study.
Research limitations/implications
The literature on game theory in humanitarian supply chains is still emerging. The findings imply opportunities for researchers to advance both theoretical and practical understanding in this area.
Practical implications
Current research provides some managerial insights to humanitarian practitioners, but future practice-driven research could increase the impact of game theory models in the humanitarian sector.
Originality/value
This work reviews past research contributions in the area of game theory and humanitarian operations and recommends areas for future research.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Support for this work was provided by National Science Foundation award number CMMI-1228110 and by a Kansas State University Provost's Mentoring Fellowship. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the funding organizations.
Citation
Muggy, L. and L. Heier Stamm, J. (2014), "Game theory applications in humanitarian operations: a review", Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Vol. 4 No. 1, pp. 4-23. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHLSCM-07-2013-0026
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited