perhaps the connotation of a "game" is unfortunate , suggesting that game theory is not really appropriate for serious conflict situations. But just the opposites is true :game theory can be applied to decisions about war and peace, the use of unclear weapons, international diplomacy, bargaining and coalition building in Congress or the United Nations, and a variety of other important political situations. A "Player" may be an individual, a group, or a national government -indeed, anybody with well-defined goals who is capable of rational action.