Formal Theory

Formal Theory is a vibrant field in the OSU Political Science Department, growing both in size and in breadth of applications. It emphasizes the use of mathematics in constructing theories of political phenomena.

Faculty: William Minozzi, Daniel Verdier, Craig Volden, Alan Wiseman, and Jack Wright.

Courses:

• Models of Politics
• Mathematical Theories of Politics
• Game Theory in International Relations
• Research in Mathematical Political Science

Additionally, several substantive courses are often taught from a formal theory perspective, including the Presidency, Legislative Politics, Voting Behavior, and Comparative Political Parties.

There are also several excellent related courses in game theory and other relevant topics in the OSU Departments of Economics and Mathematics.

Graduate students can take Formal Theory as a minor or as a Second Major, either by itself or jointly with Political Methodology.