Finite and Infinite Games (2023)

“There are at least two kinds of games,” states James P. Carse as he begins this extraordinary book. “One could be called finite; the other infinite. A finite game is played for the purpose of winning, an infinite game for the purpose of continuing the play.” Finite games are the familiar contests of everyday life; they are played in order to be won, which is when they end. Infinite games are more mysterious: their object is not winning, but ensuring the continuation of play. The rules, boundaries and participants may change, as long as the game never comes to an end. Carse explores what infinite games are, how they affect the ways we play finite games, and what it means to play either finitely or infinitely. With elegance and insight, he examines where, why and how we play, from games on the playing field and board to the infinite games found in culture and religion. Along the way, he offers new ways of understanding everything from an actress portraying a role and sexual relationships to the nature of evil and science. Finite games may offer wealth and status, power and glory, but infinite games offer something subtler and grander. Rich in insight and aphorism, Finite and Infinite Games invites readers to learn to play the infinite game.