Modeling Politics

Dr. Courtney Brown

Assignment #8

Read the article by Michael Laver and Kenneth A. Shepsle titled "Events, Equilibria, and Government Survival." This is a great article that reinforces the ideas that we discussed in class about equilibria with respect to game theory. Write a short three to five page essay that addresses the questions listed below.

• What is "government survival" as Laver and Shepsle use the term?
• Explain the four types of events or shocks that Laver and Shepsle discuss.
• What do Laver and Shepsle mean by "equilibria," and what does this have to do with the idea of equlibrium in game theory?
• How do the events or shocks influence equilibria?
• What is the reasoning behind Laver and Shepsle's claim that governments are in equilibrium in the first place?
• Are some governments more susceptible to these shocks than others? Why?

Use normal margins of 1 inch all around. Use Times New Roman 12 point font, and double space.