Day 2 - Brainstorming

Today I began researching game theory more in depth.

I am trying to have a broad view of where exactly I can go with my thesis project. The most obvious final project choice looks to be a paper where I go into the details about game theory specifically invoked in certain Survivor seasons. What makes this topic interest me so much is how intricate of a game Survivor can be, and if it can be simplified to basic elements.

My professional goal for this project is to determine if entertainment journalism would be a potential field choice for my career. My personal goal is to become a better writer throughout this project, and my educational goal is to learn more about social psychology and game theory.

Judge/Mentor ideas: Rob Cesternino,
                                 David McAdams (Duke University)
                                 Curtis Taylor (Duke University)
                                 Caroline Thomas (UT Austin)
                               
                                 

Brainstorming - August 26, 2015

One thing that I have always said intrigued me as a career option would be journalism. However, unlike the idea most people jump to - someone covering campaigns and writing about how the world is in disarray (and here are the stats to prove it!), I would want to be an entertainment journalist. I am very passionate about writing and feel that would be a career path I would enjoy. Because of that, I want my thesis to incorporate entertainment journalism to a certain extent.

I am hoping to do my thesis over how game theory can be applied to competitive reality tv, specifically Survivor. I am intrigued by the psychology behind decision making and why people make the choices they do when placed in stressful situations.

With regards to ideas for mentors, I am a huge fan of Rob Has a Podcast. This podcast is hosted by Rob Cesternino who was a former player of Survivor. He is known for his strategic mind and breaking down the strategic moves each player makes throughout Survivor seasons. Though not a professional in game theory, I think he would be an awesome mentor to have for this project for the reality tv element.

I am also planning on reaching out to several professors at Duke University who specialize in game theory. They can advise me on the more academic side of this thesis project and help me realize the path to take to create a more intelligent approach to Survivor.