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FAK3140 Decision Theory 7.5 credits

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Application

For course offering

Spring 2024 Start 16 Jan 2024 programme students

Application code

60503

Headings with content from the Course syllabus FAK3140 (Autumn 2019–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

In many situations we are forced to make decisions without having complete knowledge of the outcomes of our choices. The aim of this course is to provide a foundation for reflection on how rational choices can be made in such situations. We will discuss concepts such as rationality, preferences, goals, uncertainty, and utility. What does it mean to say that a preference, a goal, or a choice is rational? How should decisions be made under uncertainty and risk? What importance does the expected utility of different options have in a decision situation? This course will also serve as an introduction to game theory and social decision theory.

Intended learning outcomes

After completed course, the student should be able to outline and analyse arguments and basic issues in

  • decision under risk and ignorance,
  • collective decision theory,
  • the conceptual basis of decision theory,
  • formalization of decision problems.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

Entry requirements for PhD studies

Recommended prerequisites

No information inserted

Equipment

No information inserted

Literature

  • Peterson, M. ”An Introduction to Decision Theory”, Cambridge University Press.
  • Other literature posted on the course website at the latest four weeks before the course starts

Examination and completion

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grading scale

P, F

Examination

  • TEN1 - Exam, 4.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
  • UPP1 - Essay, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Other requirements for final grade

  • DEL1 Seminar participation and home exercises 3.0 credits 
  • EXC1 Home assigments 4.5 credits

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

No information inserted

Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

No information inserted

Examiner

Profile picture John Cantwell

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

ABE/Philosophy

Main field of study

This course does not belong to any Main field of study.

Education cycle

Third cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Contact

John Cantwell (john.cantwell@abe.kth.se)

Supplementary information

This course id offered in conjunction with the second cycle course AK2014. See that course for information about course offerings. 

To apply for the course, please fill in the form available on this link: https://www.kth.se/form/fak3140-decision-theory

 

Please note! This course replaces F1N5117 Decision Theory 7.5 credits 

Postgraduate course

Postgraduate courses at ABE/Philosophy